1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 11 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 3,454 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 450 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, 2009 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 318 | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3454 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
