1973 BMW 3 vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 1998 Lexus ES is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 260 kg more than 1973 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1973 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1973 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 3 | ES |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| 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 | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
