1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Lexus GX
To start off, 2012 Lexus GX is newer by 16 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus GX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2012 Lexus GX. (301 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus GX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus GX weights approximately 834 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2012 Lexus GX 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, 2012 Lexus GX 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, 2012 Lexus GX (446 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2012 Lexus GX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2012 Lexus GX 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. 2012 Lexus GX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Lexus GX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | GX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 446 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 2422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4806 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2789 mm |
