1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Lexus RX
To start off, 2009 Lexus RX is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Lexus RX. (273 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus RX weights approximately 203 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2009 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lexus RX. (342 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lexus RX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | RX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
