[QUOTE=DenverSteve;28024237]
Quote:
Originally Posted by wtwo3
....The main competitor is the m340i. The general consensus is that while the m340i is quicker, the IS500's NA V8 offers more character. .../QUOTE]
Character? That's crap. Car performance is ALL about a) numbers and b) enjoyment. Character is subjective and - irrelevant when you don't know who thinks it has more "character". A two-door sports coupe, producing 472 horses - should perform a LOT better. Again, it's a Lexus so I don't expect more. It can't even compete with a M40i at $60K.
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I've said this before and I'll say it again. Automakers are chasing performance numbers at the EXPENSE of fun and enjoyment. If you really want performance numbers go get an EV. What creates "character" is the drama that comes from the delivery of power and how the car makes you feel. Simply chasing performance numbers starts to become a clinical exercise over what makes cars fun - which is the mechanical connection.
In that regards it's no secret that NA motors typically offer a lot more character. And Lexus' V8 is renowned. Watch any review of the LC500 and people practically have orgasms when they hear that 5L V8 sing. Those smiles and giggles are derived from character. An LC500 is a very mediocre performer, but I don't think a single review exists where it doesn't put a smile on the reviewer's face. And I'm not armchair critiquing here, I've driven it myself numerous times and yes, that Lexus NA V8 has a ton more character than a turbo charged motor is capable of giving.