1998 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Lexus SC
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus SC weights approximately 155 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1996 Lexus SC (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1996 Lexus SC | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 318 | SC |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |
