2004 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Lexus RX
To start off, 2012 Lexus RX is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2012 Lexus RX. (270 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus RX weights approximately 120 kg more than 2004 BMW M3.
Because 2004 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX, 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus RX. (336 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus RX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2012 Lexus RX | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | RX |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 73 L |
