2009 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Lexus SC
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1998 Lexus SC. (225 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus SC.
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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus SC. (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1998 Lexus SC | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | SC |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2700 mm |
