1997 BMW 318 vs. 2007 Lexus LS
To start off, 2007 Lexus LS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 4,608 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus LS (381 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318.
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, 2007 Lexus LS (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2007 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2007 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 318 | LS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 4608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 381 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3100 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 84 L |
