The M3, meanwhile, is clear in its definition: a real sportscar (even if it is a sedan) with all the bells and whistles the Lexus lacks. It also performs so much better that it's a shame the IS-F can't compare, except in price.

Overall, the IS-F is heavier and more difficult to maneuver, but is still quite fast, luxurious and an "A+ for effort" attempt to overthrow the M-Series cars. Maybe when the LF-A is released, Lexus will have a fighting chance - and they probably will. But until then, BMW can enjoy their view from the top, along with all of its owners, even if they are assholes.

- Jonathan Wong, Editor, Super Street magazine

My Thoughts

Overall, I preferred the IS-F over the M3. However, I was only in the M3 briefly, so this is based purely on appearance. I think the IS-F is sleeker and sexier. I also have to add that the Lexus kept me safe while descending a canyon road at speed with Greg at the wheel. I couldn't see a thing because my eyes were closed the whole way down, but I felt every turn and could tell the car handled really well - Thank God. I'd also like to give props to the brakes and the Oh-Shit handle!

Designer's Perspective

I'm a big fan of the 3-Series, especially the Coupe. It's a very tight design but the rear bumper is a little fussy and less developed. The surface development and quality is much better on the Coupe, though.

I prefer the BMW to the IS-F because the details on the Lexus look cheap, especially the hood, which is unresolved. The stacked exhaust tailpipes are cool but the execution is a little unsophisticated.

I really like the Lexus IS range, which is probably the best design the company has ever produced, but the IS-F doesn't have enough sophistication to be its flagship model. However, it does look sporty and muscular, particularly with its fender vents. But on balance, the BMW is a better design.

- Derek Jenkins, Director of Design Mazda NA (ex-VW)

TECH SPEC	BMW M3	LEXUS IS-F
Base price	$54500	$56760
Engine	3999cc V8	5.0 V8
Compression	12:1	11.8:1
Power	414hp at 8300rpm	418hp at 6600rom
Torque	295 lb-ft at 3900rpm	371 lb-ft at 5200rpm
0-60mph	4.7sec	4.6sec
Top Speed (limited)	155mph	170mph
Economy (city/highway)	14/20pmg	16/23mpg
Fuel tank	16.6 gallons	16.9 gallons
Curb weight	3648 lb	3780 lb
Transmission (semi-auto)	7-speed	8-speed
Length	181"	183.5"
Wheelbase	109"	107.5
Width	71.5"	71.5"
Front rotors	14.2"	14.2"
Front calipers	single-piston	six-piston
Rear rotors	13.8"	13.6"
Rear calipers	single-piston	two-piston
Wheels	18x8.5/18x9.5"	19x8/19x9" BBS
Tires	245/40-265/40	225/40-255/40