1997 BMW S3 vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 12 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2009 Lexus IS. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 292 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 2009 Lexus IS (400 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2009 Lexus IS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | S3 | IS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2231 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 400 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 15.8:1 |
Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |