2007 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2007 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 60 kg more than 2007 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, 2012 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW M3. (366 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW M3. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW M3 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
