1998 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (150 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 290 kg more than 1998 BMW 325.
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, 2012 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 325 | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
