2009 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Lexus SC
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,298 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2002 Lexus SC. (312 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 495 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2002 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2002 Lexus SC | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | SC |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 312 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
