1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (357 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 485 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.
Because 2009 Lexus LS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Lexus LS (466 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 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. 2009 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 3 | LS |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 357 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 466 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2980 mm |
