1998 BMW 318 vs. 2001 Lexus RX
To start off, 2001 Lexus RX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus RX (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus RX weights approximately 470 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.
Because 2001 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Lexus RX (283 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2001 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 318 | RX |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 283 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
