1971 BMW 3 vs. 1989 Lexus LS
To start off, 1989 Lexus LS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lexus LS weights approximately 438 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1989 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1989 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1989 Lexus LS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | 3 | LS |
Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3969 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1818 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 85 L |