2003 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 6 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 3,454 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 298 kg more than 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2009 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2009 Lexus IS 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. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2009 Lexus IS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | M3 | IS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3454 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 376 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |