2008 BMW X3 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 3 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 198 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
Because 2011 Lexus IS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS 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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | X3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
