1997 BMW 730 vs. 2012 Lexus RX
To start off, 2012 Lexus RX is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 730 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus RX (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus RX weights approximately 150 kg more than 1997 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 730 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 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX, 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, 2012 Lexus RX (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 730. (279 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 730. 2012 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 730 | 2012 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 730 | RX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 73 L |
