1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 38 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 270 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lexus IS. 2009 Lexus IS 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. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Lexus IS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | 3 | IS |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2740 mm |