1974 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Lexus GS
To start off, 2012 Lexus GS is newer by 38 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus GS (342 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus GS weights approximately 356 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Lexus GS (459 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 3. (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 3. 2012 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. 2012 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 2012 Lexus GS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | 3 | GS |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 342 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1789 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4826 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1821 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1425 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2850 mm |