1997 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Lexus ES
To start off, 2009 Lexus ES is newer by 12 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 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus ES (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus ES weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus ES, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Lexus ES (345 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2009 Lexus ES 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. 2009 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2009 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 318 | ES |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
