2004 BMW 318 vs. 1999 Lexus GS
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus GS would be higher. At 3,000 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus GS (277 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus GS weights approximately 850 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Lexus GS, 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, 1999 Lexus GS (420 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm). This means 1999 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 1999 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1999 Lexus GS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 318 | GS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
