Both are good!

If you want a more solid feel, a no non-sense style and a more reputable name-badge go for the BMW 330i. Performance wise the BMW is a hair on top of the IS300. Test driving the 330i, it accelerates, stops and corners a bit better then the IS300. It felt like a more solid car.

However, the Lexus IS300 is a better value. About $5k cheaper you get a car that is of near equal performance. Not to mention how reliable Lexus is. My 330i is only a year old and already been in the shop twice, costing me a fortune. Sometimes I regret I should of gottin the Lexus. I've also seen a lot of Beemers stranded on freeways. The only turn-off about the IS-300 in my opinion is the cheesy rear styling and the cheap plastic interior. Besides its looks the Lexus is a great buy. I'm just a bit on the conservative side, of course everyones taste is different.

choose the edit/delete function after your post. then klik the little box that says delete. then klik the little delete now box... welcome to af. you will get tha hang of it :D

-GTi-VR6_A3

Just wondering how a one year old car could be in the shop and "cost you a fortune" when new Bimmers have a 4 year warranty?

Originally posted by RedShift
Just wondering how a one year old car could be in the shop and "cost you a fortune" when new Bimmers have a 4 year warranty?

Ditto!

Also miffed at the blanket statement of BMW's along the side of the highway. Seems I've seen my share of Lexus' and other rice burning, German Car Wannabes on the side of the road, as well.

Lexus does make a good copy of European sports sedans, but if you want the REAL thing, get a BMW.

Originally posted by RedShift
Just wondering how a one year old car could be in the shop and "cost you a fortune" when new Bimmers have a 4 year warranty?

Double Ditto!

This person is full of it.

Now,

I might be a newbie. but a BMW on the side of the road?

Hell no.

I have a 84 325e. 205k miles on the clock and still running superb. Your out of your mind with that statement. LOL.