1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2002 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 7 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
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 Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2002 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | Z3 | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
