2012 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Lexus LS
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,968 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lexus LS weights approximately 355 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Lexus LS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1990 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1990 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 1990 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | LS |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2820 mm |
