1997 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2005 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 206 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2005 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
