Lexus IS 350 or BMW 335i/xi

[ledfoot]

I will soon be buying a new sport sedan. My initial choice was the Lexus IS 350 because I liked the 306 HP and 4.09 gear which makes the car go fast. I also really like the exterior style. However, I live in Minnesota and even though the past 5+ winters have been mild, I am cautious about buying a rear wheel drive car. The BMW 335i comes in All Wheel Drive (xi) in addition to Rear Wheel. I test drove a 335i yesterday and was impressed with its acceleration, particularly when shifting the automatic transmission. The IS 350 includes paddle shifters as does the 335i (xi does not).

So, can I get some opinions on IS 350 vs 335i(xi)? Also, should I get AWD which basically limits my choice to the BMW?

[pokerbobo]

Rear wheel drive is FUN FUN FUN in the snow! Go with the Lexus.

[stephan]

It depends how small your penis is. Go with the pricier one.

[EvanJC]

both

[Swiitch]

I have a 335i, which I love. The 300hp turbo is fun to drive. It's not all that bad in the snow, but I drive our SUV when the roads are really bad, since it has AWD.

I didn't test drive the Lexus, so I can't make a comparison between the two.

[Tom1975]

Have you looked at the Infiniti G35/G35x at all?

[blinden84]

If you have the money, get the 350 obviously, it's, what, 15 better?

[Blarg]

I've only driven the IS, what, 330 I think. Too small for a tallish(6'2") guy -- my head presses the roof and I have to drive in a bit of a slump. Initial pick-up is slow, but the steering is nice and tight and feels natural. The car goes where I will it to go. Above 60, it comes into its own. Feels extremely good at 80. Not knowledgeable about cars, but I guess the 350 is a step up from the 330. So you'd hope it would have at least the 330's virtues.

How's the room and the initial pick-up in the BMW?

Drive both and see how you feel. I'm curious at the difference between the 330 and 350 myself.

[D104]

[ QUOTE ]
Drive both and see how you feel. I'm curious at the difference between the 330 and 350 myself.

[/ QUOTE ]

Maybe you're referring to the old model, but the IS comes in a 250 and a 350.

I have the 250, and love it. I'm 6'4" and find it very comfortable, but then again, I prefer smaller cars. My head does not touch the roof while driving. I drove the BMW and found it nice, but it is a firmer ride - BMW's are just designed that way. Just drive both and see which one you like more.

D

[fuzzwonder]

335i for one reason. it comes in a stick
also, if you buy the 335i rwd (which is infinitely better) you can buy an after market lsd to install. it is night and day the traction you get in winter.