Lexus IS 500 vs BMW M3 — V8 Glory or Track Toy?

Track Use: M3

While I feel confident in arguing for buying a (less powerful) V8 for most situations, there’s one place where the M3 still reigns supreme. Yup, the track. Not only for the added torque and horsepower, but also because the M3 and M3 Competition are simply more track-ready sedans as a whole. The IS 500 should be quite capable doing occasional track days, but because it’s not a full F car, it will lack the larger brakes and added cooling necessary to beat the tar out of it during repeated hot-laps.

Yes, Lexus vehicles are dependable, the IS 500 comes standard with a mechanical Torsen differential, the non-F LC 500 is fun on track, and I just watched a set of IS 350 F-Sports do autocross for six straight hours without missing a beat. But still, the M3 is the one to get if you’re planning to track your ride often. More cooling. Bigger brakes. And, if Lexus sticks with the Bridgestone Potenzas from the IS 350 F Sport, the BMW will presumably have better tires (in my opinion).

Transmission: M3

Another win for Bavaria. First, let’s give BMW props for offering a manual transmission. Sure, no one actually buys manuals and they aren’t usually faster these days. But rowing gears allow drivers to fully engage in the experience, much in the same way a high-revving V8 enhances the experience. That said, having driven the previous-generation M3 as well as the current-gen IS 350 F Sport, which is where the IS 500 snagging its 8-speed auto, I prefer the BMW’s responsiveness and shifting over Lexus.

For reference, in the Lexus fold, I also prefer the LC 500’s 10-speed auto to the IS 350’s 8-speed for the way the 10-speed up and downshifts, although I’d still argue that the BMWs are a little quicker. Hopefully Lexus engineers tune the IS 500 with the same gusto as the LC.

Click HERE to go to NEXT PAGE or use the index below!

Lexus IS 500 vs BMW M3 Comparison Index

Intro & Specs
Styling & Engine
Track Use & Transmission
Reliability & Final Thoughts

Michael S. Palmer

Michael S. Palmer began his career assisting and developing content for Academy Award-winning and studio-based film and television producers. He has been a professional writer since 2008, when he joined the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw). As a journalist and Content Editor/Manager, he has covered numerous emerging imaging, theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, and automotive technologies. He currently spends his days creating original content at the Internet Brands Automotive Group for some of the world's largest online automotive communities, including Ford Truck Enthusiasts, CorvetteForum, ClubLexus, AudiWorld, and LS1Tech. He still owns his first car, a 1987 Mercury Cougar; adores driving his Boss 302 Mustang; and recently teamed with Chevrolet Performance, Holley, Magnaflow, Eaton, Wilwood, Michelin, Chemical Guys, Summit Racing to build his first project car. Installing an LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system into a 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon made his eight-passenger wagon faster than a C5 Corvette to 60mph and 50 state emissions legal. His wife and daughter are very patient.