2004 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Lexus SC
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,291 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2002 Lexus SC. (278 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2002 Lexus SC. 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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2002 Lexus SC | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | SC |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 4291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 278 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 66 L |
