1995 BMW S3 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 17 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Lexus IS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (251 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS. 2012 Lexus IS 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. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | S3 | IS |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2731 mm |
