1997 BMW S3 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 S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus LS (279 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus LS weights approximately 474 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (417 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2007 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2007 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 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 S3 | 2007 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | S3 | LS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 279 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 417 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1842 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2930 mm |
