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Thinking about buying a Lexus is350c? Compare it to a BMW 335i Convertible first!
The BMW 335i Convertible Overview
BMW's 3 Series Convertible, like every other 3 Series, has won more comparison tests than any other luxury compact. Many of these have pitted the 230-hp 328i against more powerful – and more expensive – competitors. Likewise, the 335i remains the standard for performance convertibles, and its new 300-horsepower TwinPower Turbo represents the ultimate in no-excuses response.
As with any 3 Series, the reason for that acclaim is easily explained. The 328i and 335i Convertibles have none of the typical convertible compromises of slow reflexes, sluggish acceleration, or softly sprung suspensions. These two are still, first and foremost, BMWs, and as such still offer all the performance expected of the Ultimate Driving Machines – they just add a dash of al fresco appeal. Combined with the standard power-driven retractable hard-top, the 328i and 335i truly do offer the best of both worlds.
And this year, the 320-hp 335is ups the ante for performance even further, ensuring even fewer challenges for drop-top supremacy. Thereby keeping the rest of the competition in its traditional place – right behind BMW's 3 Series.
The Lexus is350c Overview
The more powerful IS350C includes a direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6 paired with a 6-speed automatic only. The convertible features an aluminum hardtop that blends well with the car's overall top-up shape, but the high-waisted top-down look includes an awkward hump at the rear that has prompted complaints about rear visibility in road tests. A rear-view camera is optional, and considered necessary by several testers. In addition to more power, the 350 includes larger brakes with 4-piston front calipers, but it wears the same 17-inch wheels and tires as the 250C. It is reasonably quick, but the 306-hp IS350C's sporting credentials don't extend to chassis performance; like its lower-cost sibling, the IS350C is aimed more toward sedate cruising than sport driving.
BMW vs. Lexus is350c
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What BMW offers…
- The 335i Convertible is considered the performance class standard in both handling and engine performance.
- Automatic High Beams are an optional feature not available on the Lexus.
- BMW's standard bi-xenon headlamps combine an active feature with Cornering lights for improved nightvision.
- With a 0-60 time of 5.5 seconds (manual) or 5.7 seconds (auto), the 300-hp 335i is quicker than the IS350C. It also offers 300 lb-ft. of torque from 1200 – 5000 rpm.
- Moreover, BMW's Twin Power turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 is inherently smoother than the 90-degree Lexus V-6, and at 19 City / 28 Highway, gets better EPA mileage to boot.
- Despite its shorter wheelbase and overall length, the 335i includes 49.3 inches of rear shoulder room, and at 32 inches, more than 6 inches more rear legroom.
- BMW includes a 4-year/50,000-mile Full Maintenance Warranty
What Lexus doesn’t…
- The Lexus is considered a pleasant car to drive, but its handling isn't on par with BMW's in road tests (see quotes).
- Though it offers a wide range of standard and optional features, automatic high beams aren't available.
- Bi-xenon headlights are an $875 option on the IS350C, and don't include cornering lights.
- Though it nominally offers more power, the automatic-only IS350C boasts only a 5.8 second 0-60 time. And with only 277 lb-ft at 4800 rpm, it can't match BMW's powerband.
- The IS350C's V-6 is reasonably smooth for a V-6, but it's not as responsive as BMW's inline-6, and lags the 335i in fuel economy as well, with 18 City / 25 Highway.
- With a slightly smaller wheelbase, the IS-C offers significantly less interior room, including only 44.7 inches of shoulder room and 25.9 inches of rear legroom.
- Lexus includes the same length warranty period, but no full maintenance.
"The current 3 Series... remains the target of every automaker looking to make
a name for itself in the mid-size luxury segment – and it's the standard by which they are measured." – Motor Trend
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Posted vehicle images and descriptions on our website is representative to what is provided by our suppliers. Please note that the actual vehicle may slightly differ from its specifications and/or images. The Dealership is not responsible for any typographical, pricing, product specifications, advertising or shipping errors. Advertised prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
In the event a vehicle is posted at an incorrect price due to these errors, or if an error in pricing was received from our suppliers, the Dealership reserves the right to refuse and/or cancel these orders.
We will make our best efforts that posted prices are always accurate however, we are not responsible for any typographical or other errors that may appear on the site. If the posted price for a vehicle or service is incorrect due to a typographical or other error, such as data transmission, etc., this Dealership or Pixel Motion, Inc. are only responsible for the correct price, which will be provided as soon as we are made aware of such error(s). Ultimately, it is your responsibility to ensure that the information is 100% accurate with the Dealer.
Posted vehicle images and descriptions on our website is representative to what is provided by our suppliers. Please note that the actual vehicle may slightly differ from its specifications and/or images. The Dealership is not responsible for any typographical, pricing, product specifications, advertising or shipping errors. Advertised prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
In the event a vehicle is posted at an incorrect price due to these errors, or if an error in pricing was received from our suppliers, the Dealership reserves the right to refuse and/or cancel these orders.
