1998 BMW 330 vs. 1996 Lexus ES
To start off, 1998 BMW 330 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 BMW 330. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus ES weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 330 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 1998 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 330. (281 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 330. 1996 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 330 | 1996 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 330 | ES |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
