Wow, the new M3 has competition from all corners.
 

Not quite the same as when the E46 model was introduced. And hopefully the added competition will force BMW into a 'reasonable' price tag:

2008 Lexus ISF

Automatic trans: 8-speeds (170mph limited in 6th, 7th & 8th)
HP: 416@6600
TQ: 371@5200
1320: 12.8 @ 113.3mph
0.91G
Top Speed: 170mph (limited)
0-60: 4.4s
Slalom: 71.2
Price: $58,000 (est) - tested at $67,400

Brakes - F: 14.2 (6 pistons) R: 13.6 (2 piston)

Tires: 225 F 255 R
Weight: 3985lbs
W/D: 54/46

My prediction is that this car will be a flop. Too much competition in this segment from companies that have been doing it for years. Perhaps maybe not quite as dismal as the VW Phaeton, but along those lines...

I don't know man, Lexus has a big following. And that will Toyota reliability....

Good indication of what the new Supra will be doing :)

I just think there are a lot of other similar vehicles in this price range that would be more desireable. I like the car, but I'd never buy it over an M3 or a 550 sport, or even a 3 year old AMG something or other. The Supra, now that's a different story.... Time will tell...

i saw the ISF at the Taste of Lexus event in the summer. It looked OK and the specs look great, but if it drives like any other Lexus, then it will bomb!!!

ouch.. 4000 lbs = even heavier than than the C63... that's a porker!

This car will be a flop for sure. Trying waaay to hard! Those stacked tips don't even have exhaust connected to them! And what's with using an auto. A performance car does not use a slushbox. Leave it to the big dawgs from BMW and Audi to get the job done.

The suspension is supposed to be ridiculously stiff, that's what happens when you have to manage 4000lbs like Josh said.

Better question, why does the Lexus IS350 only come with a auto but the IS250 comes with a manual :dunno:

hahaha...saw that on insideline.

Lexus...now comes with factory rice

This is exactly right. The Lexus will mainly compete in my eyes with the MB & the CTS-V which have slushboxes. The M3 (& I the RS4) will be the two who are really facing off.

The real enthusiasts will find what they want in the M3/RS4 camp. The IS-F will have a tough fight in the 'slushbox' camp, which by definition is smaller.