1974 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Lexus GS
To start off, 2005 Lexus GS is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus GS (242 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus GS weights approximately 272 kg more than 1974 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Lexus GS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Lexus GS (312 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2005 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2005 Lexus GS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 3 | GS |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
