2000 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Lexus RX
To start off, 2012 Lexus RX is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus RX (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2000 BMW 318. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus RX weights approximately 535 kg more than 2000 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 BMW 318 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 2000 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX, 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, 2012 Lexus RX (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 318. 2012 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2000 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2000 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 318 | 2012 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 318 | RX |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 73 L |
