1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Lexus LFA
To start off, 2011 Lexus LFA is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 4,805 cc (10 cylinders), 2011 Lexus LFA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus LFA (552 HP @ 8700 RPM) has 351 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus LFA should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus LFA weights approximately 225 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 2011 Lexus LFA (480 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus LFA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Lexus LFA has manual transmission. 2011 Lexus LFA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2011 Lexus LFA | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | Z3 | LFA |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 4805 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 552 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8700 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 325 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4505 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1895 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2605 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 73 L |
