1973 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Lexus GS
To start off, 2006 Lexus GS is newer by 33 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, 2006 Lexus GS (245 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus GS weights approximately 305 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 2006 Lexus GS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Lexus GS 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, 2006 Lexus GS (313 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3. 2006 Lexus GS 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. 2006 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2006 Lexus GS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 3 | GS |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 71 L |
