2001 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Lexus RX
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus RX would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1999 Lexus RX. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus RX weights approximately 210 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Because 1999 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus RX. (283 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus RX. 1999 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1999 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | RX |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 283 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2620 mm |
