1974 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 34 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 307 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 2008 Lexus IS 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, 2008 Lexus IS 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 3 | IS |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
