2003 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Lexus RX
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2008 Lexus RX. (272 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 450 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2008 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus RX. (342 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus RX. 2008 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2008 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | RX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
