2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (306 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2012 Lexus IS 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. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.9 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
