1972 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Lexus ES
To start off, 2006 Lexus ES is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,314 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus ES weights approximately 277 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 3 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Lexus ES, 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, 2006 Lexus ES (321 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2006 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2006 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 3 | ES |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
