2009 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus IS 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 261 more horse power than 2006 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 135 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.3 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.9 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
