1996 BMW 540 vs. 2003 Lexus RX
To start off, 2003 Lexus RX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2003 Lexus RX. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus RX weights approximately 50 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2003 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus RX. (284 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus RX. 2003 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2003 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 540 | RX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 284 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
