7 Series E65 vs LS III (XF30): which is better?
BMW 7 Series E65 (2001–2008) vs Lexus LS III (XF30) (2000–2006): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
BMW 7 Series E65
Lexus LS III (XF30)Specifications
| BMW 7 Series E65 | Lexus LS III (XF30) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2001–2008 | 2000–2006 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 4.4 V8 (745i) | 4.3 V8 (LS430) |
| Power, up to | 333 hp | 282 hp |
| Torque, up to | 450 Nm | 417 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | rear-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 5 029 mm | 4 995 mm |
| Width | 1 902 mm | 1 830 mm |
| Height | 1 492 mm | 1 470 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 990 mm | 2 925 mm |
| Fuel tank | 88 L | 84 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 508 825 ₸ | ≈ 508 125 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
BMW 7 Series E65
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 333 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large fuel tank: 88 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox ZF 5HP/6HP: bushing and mechatronics wear
Gearbox (ZF 5HP/6HP): bushing and mechatronic wear; shift shocks.
Lexus LS III (XF30)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 282 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large fuel tank: 84 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- No data
Which one to choose
- 7 Series E65 — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
- LS III (XF30) — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: 7 Series E65 or LS III (XF30)?
7 Series E65: up to 333 hp, LS III (XF30): up to 282 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: 7 Series E65 — about 508 825 ₸, LS III (XF30) — about 508 125 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.