1988 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Lexus RX
To start off, 2006 Lexus RX is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Lexus RX. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus RX weights approximately 340 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 2006 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Lexus RX 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 RX (283 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2006 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2006 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | RX |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 283 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
