2009 BMW X3 vs. 1988 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1988 Lexus LS. (242 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lexus LS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lexus LS weights approximately 85 kg more than 2009 BMW X3.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Lexus LS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1988 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3. 1988 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1988 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | X3 | LS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2820 mm |
