1996 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Lexus IS
To start off, 2010 Lexus IS is newer by 14 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus IS weights approximately 235 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. 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, 2010 Lexus IS (502 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2010 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2010 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2010 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | IS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
