2009 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Lexus IS. 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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | X3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 66 L |
