2008 BMW X3 vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2009 Lexus IS. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | X3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 15.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
