1997 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Lexus RX
To start off, 2006 Lexus RX is newer by 9 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 39 more horse power than 2006 Lexus RX. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus RX weights approximately 247 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, 2006 Lexus RX (283 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2006 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2006 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 2006 Lexus RX | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | M3 | RX |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 283 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1547 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |