1995 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Lexus LS
To start off, 2011 Lexus LS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus LS (380 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1995 BMW S3. (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus LS weights approximately 248 kg more than 1995 BMW S3. 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, 2011 Lexus LS (497 Nm) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2011 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2011 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2011 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | S3 | LS |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 380 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 497 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1973 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1875 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2969 mm |
