2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 250 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | Z4 | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 215 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
