1997 Lexus ES vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 215 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3. 1997 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus ES | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Lexus | BMW |
| Model | ES | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
