1996 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Lexus ES
To start off, 1997 Lexus ES is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 145 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 325 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 325. 1997 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 325 | 1997 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 325 | ES |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
