1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 9 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 157 more horse power than 2006 Lexus IS. (176 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 337 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, 2006 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW Z3. (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | Z3 | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 15.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| 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 | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
