BMW M2 vs. Lexus RC F: Complete comparison 2026

BMW M2 is a compact and high-performance coupe that, thanks to its precisely tuned chassis, rear-wheel drive, and turbocharged six-cylinder engine, has built a reputation as one of the most agile driver's cars on the market. Standing against it is the Lexus RC F, an uncompromising Japanese coupe relying on a now-rare naturally aspirated five-liter V8, whose additional letter "F" refers to its development at the home circuit, Fuji Speedway. In the following comparison, we will focus in detail on the differences in driving dynamics, technology, and operating costs of both used models to help you find out which of these two different approaches to sporty driving will better suit your preferences.

When looking at the exterior dimensions, BMW M2 and Lexus RC F represent two distinct approaches to building a sports car. While the Lexus RC F feels like a classic, elegant, and massive gran turismo with a noticeably longer body, the BMW M2 profiles itself as a compact, muscular brawler. In the used car market for vehicles around four years old, BMW buyers mostly choose between late models of the outgoing F87 generation and the first units of the succeeding G87 generation, which differ slightly in their dimensions, but the basic character of both cars remains clearly defined. This difference in overall proportions is the first clue to what kind of experience you can expect behind the wheel and whether you will prefer a highway cruiser or a playful backroad missile.

The main and most striking difference at first glance is the overall length. The Lexus RC F, with a length exceeding 4.7 meters, is 118 to 249 mm longer than the BMW M2 (depending on which generation of the Bavarian model you choose). While this elongated silhouette adds elegance to the Japanese coupe and contributes to excellent directional stability at high highway speeds, it can be a minor disadvantage in cramped city traffic. The BMW M2, on the other hand, scores with its shorter build and, surprisingly, a greater overall width (up to 1,887 mm compared to 1,845 mm for the Lexus). The wider track and shorter body give the German car extraordinary agility and make maneuvering in tight spaces easier. For the buyer, this means a clear choice: if you often park in the city and are looking for maximum nimbleness, the shorter and wider M2 will be more user-friendly, while you will appreciate the RC F primarily during fast journeys on open roads.

A look at the wheelbase also offers an interesting comparison. Although the Lexus RC F is much longer overall, its wheelbase is 2,730 mm. If you opt for the newer generation of the BMW M2 (G87), you surprisingly get a car with a longer wheelbase of 2,747 mm, which means the wheels are pushed to the very corners of the body (the older and smaller F87 generation, by contrast, has a shorter wheelbase of 2,693 mm). In terms of height, both models are very similar; however, the Lexus, with a height of 1,390 mm, sits 5 to 24 millimeters closer to the asphalt. From a practical selection standpoint, this shows that the newer M2 uses its compact footprint more effectively to maximize the wheelbase, benefiting both interior spaciousness and cornering stability, while the RC F relies on classic proportions with longer overhangs that will appeal to lovers of traditional sports coupe styling.

Although the BMW M2 and Lexus RC F are primarily high-performance sports coupes focused on the ultimate driving experience, everyday usability and practicality still play an important role for many buyers in the used car market. Trunk capacity largely determines whether the car will serve only as an uncompromising weekend toy or if it can also handle the role of a vehicle for comfortably going on a holiday for two or doing a regular large grocery run. In this regard, both models can be quite a pleasant surprise, although neither can be considered a traditional hauler.

Looking at cars around four years old, we find that the German representative offers slightly more generous luggage space. The BMW M2 (whether we are talking about the popular previous F87 generation or the newer G87) has a trunk with a basic capacity of exactly 390 liters. In contrast, the Lexus RC F (from the long-serving XC1 generation) offers a slightly more modest 366 liters. Both cars have a coupe body style, which in practice means a smaller loading opening and specific trunk proportions. Nevertheless, the interior space in both models is long and deep enough to accommodate several standard travel suitcases. Since both are exclusively models with pure internal combustion engines, you won't find any hybrid variants here where trunk capacity would be further limited by the installation of large batteries.

The 24-liter difference in favor of the BMW M2 may seem negligible on paper, but in practice, it means exactly that storage space for one extra small backpack or sports bag, which you will definitely appreciate when packing for longer trips. Given that we are talking about traditional sports coupes with a rigid body, manufacturers do not officially state the maximum usable trunk volume after folding the rear seats in the form of a classic loading area for these generations. Even without this value, however, the basic volume of both cars is surprisingly sufficient for everyday needs – a weekend grocery run or a longer holiday for two adult passengers will not pose a logistical problem in either of these vehicles.

When choosing a purebred sports coupe, trailer weight is usually not among the key parameters, yet it can play a role for some owners in the overall daily practicality of the car. In the duel between the BMW M2 and Lexus RC F models, however, the situation is absolutely clear – given their purist focus on uncompromising track performance and dynamics, these cars are not homologated from the factory for towing any trailer at all. Whether you focus on the used car market for roughly four-year-old models, represented by the XC1 generation at Lexus, or the slightly older F87 generation or, conversely, the latest G87 at BMW, the standard and maximum trailer weight for both cars is identically 0 kg. Unlike regular passenger cars, where technical specifications change across versions and, for example, with hybrid variants with reduced capacity you encounter various limits, you will find no compromises here. The values remain zero for absolutely all equipment levels and engine options. From a practical standpoint, this means a clear limitation. If you imagined occasionally attaching a light designer trailer to the car, which would offer space for a few extra suitcases or be sufficient for weekend shopping or a longer vacation, you will hit an insurmountable technical and legislative barrier and will have to rely exclusively on the internal luggage space of the car itself. In conclusion, it can be stated that as far as towing capabilities are concerned, both rivals have absolutely nothing to reproach each other for; neither of them is created for this role, and those interested in towing loads have no choice but to look for a completely different category of vehicles.

Completely different approaches to performance

The engines of both these sports coupes represent two completely different approaches to building a fast car, making them fascinating rivals for drivers. While BMW bets on modern twin-turbocharging technology and its legendary inline-six, Lexus remains faithful to the old school, hiding one of the last naturally aspirated V8 engines on the European market under its hood. For those interested in a used car around four years old (mainly 2020–2022 models), this presents an attractive choice. They can choose between the massive and explosive low-end torque dominated by the nimble-feeling BMW, and the beautifully linear power delivery with an unmistakable soundtrack of the Japanese GT. Both vehicles send their power strictly to the rear axle. However, unlike Lexus, the German automaker still caters to purists and offers the possibility of full driver engagement through a manual transmission.

BMW M2 Engines

In the category of roughly four-year-old used cars, you will mostly encounter the top versions of the outgoing F87 generation of the BMW M2, namely the popular Competition models and the exclusive limited CS edition. These cars replaced the original N55 engine with a top-tier three-liter inline-six (S55) featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology, borrowed from the larger M3 and M4 models. The base variant for this period is the Competition version, offering 302 kW (410 hp) and a generous 550 Nm of torque. The sharper and now highly collectible CS version was tuned to a breathtaking 331 kW (450 hp). The youngest and currently available G87 generation (from 2023) then received a completely new S58 engine with a base output of 338 kW (460 hp). A huge draw for car enthusiasts is the fact that for models from 2018 to 2022, they can choose between a traditional six-speed manual and a lightning-fast seven-speed M DKG dual-clutch automatic. The original M2 powertrains with the weaker N55 engine, produced only until mid-2018, are no longer commonly found among prospective four-year-old cars.

Lexus RC F Engines

The Lexus RC F is a total unicorn in today's market for nearly-new sports cars. Under its massive hood beats a five-liter V8 (5.0 V8) that offers absolutely no electrification or turbocharging. Customers looking for a used car must take into account one important technological change across the model years. Older units produced roughly until the end of 2018 provided 351 kW (477 hp), but due to their age, they are already disappearing from the spectrum of premium four-year-old used cars. With the introduction of stricter European WLTP emission standards, Lexus had to innovate the engine and equip it with a particulate filter, which slightly reduced the power of newer models available on today's market to 341 kW (464 hp) and torque to 520 Nm. In the real world, however, this minor paper deficit is completely unnoticeable. The engine has retained its fantastically smooth and linear characteristics and eagerly revs all the way to the limiter set high above 7,000 rpm. Unlike its Munich rival, don't look for a clutch pedal in the interior; all versions of the Lexus are paired exclusively with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for long-term satisfaction with used sports coupes, as previous handling and the technical complexity of the units can significantly affect operating costs. Both of these cars represent the absolute pinnacle in their categories, but they approach performance quite differently. While BMW relies on the explosive power of a twin-turbocharged inline-six with massive torque available from low revs, Lexus proudly sticks to the traditional school with a large-displacement naturally aspirated V8, which needs to be revved for dynamics but rewards with linear pull and fantastic reliability. Below are the best choices for vehicles available on the used car market around four years old.

For the BMW M2, we recommend: 3.0 Bi-Turbo (S55) – M2 Competition version, 302 kW (410 hp)

For those interested in a used M2 around four to five years old (end of the F87 generation, sold between 2018–2020), the M2 Competition model is the absolute best choice. It replaced the older base version with the N55 engine in the lineup and brought a full-fledged M unit designated S55 under the hood, originally developed for the larger M3/M4 models. The main technical advantage is the excellent power delivery with 550 Nm of torque from very low revs and a significantly reinforced cooling system, thanks to which the car handles even sharp track use without problems. In terms of long-term reliability, it is a very robust engine, but the biggest known bogeyman is the so-called crank hub spinning issue. At stock power, the risk is minimal, but if you are buying a car from an enthusiast who increased the power via software tuning, check if a preventative aftermarket crank lock has already been installed. Another rule for preventing wear is a consistent shortening of the oil change interval to 10,000 km and strict warming up of the engine and transmission (whether it's the 6-speed manual or the lightning-fast 7-speed dual-clutch M DKG) before any dynamic driving. This engine is the ideal choice for fans of an aggressive sporting style who want a car with the behavior of a B-road weapon and like to head out for a weekend track day.

For the Lexus RC F, we recommend: 5.0 V8 (2UR-GSE), 341 kW (464 hp)

In the case of the Lexus RC F (XC1 generation), the dilemma of choice is eliminated – only one engine has been in the lineup from the start, the now-iconic five-liter naturally aspirated V8. For approximately four-year-old used cars (model years from 2019), the engine has its power slightly reduced to 341 kW (464 hp) due to the additional installation of particulate filters (OPF/GPF), but its essence remains untouched. A huge technical strength of this unit is its almost bulletproof Japanese reliability. Mechanically, it is one of the most durable engines in its class, which easily handles hundreds of thousands of kilometers with regular servicing. A real weakness compared to the turbocharged BMW is the higher weight of the car and lower torque (520 Nm) in the lower rev range, which, combined with a classic automatic, means the car doesn't feel as sharp at first impression until you rev the engine above 4,000 rpm. A potential risk to longevity is carbon buildup in the intake, which is a side effect of the D-4S combined injection during frequent city driving at low revs. Ideal prevention is to occasionally "blow out" the engine with brisk highway driving and to refuel exclusively with premium 100-octane gasoline. The car is ideally designed for lovers of classic Gran Turismos – it will serve drivers spending a lot of time on long highway routes perfectly, who appreciate the velvety character of a large V8, fantastic sound, and complete peace of mind regarding mechanical reliability.

While official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers often seem suspiciously optimistic for sports models, the reality of daily operation is usually different. The actual appetite of high-performance coupes is best revealed by data from drivers themselves on community portals such as the German Spritmonitor.de. When choosing a roughly four-year-old used car, it is much more useful to monitor real long-term averages. How does the turbocharged Munich six-cylinder compare to the naturally aspirated Japanese V8 in this regard?

Looking at real-world data, it is clear that the technology chosen under the hood plays a fundamental role. While the older base version of the BMW M2 (with the N55 engine) can average a surprisingly acceptable 8.2 liters per 100 km, the transition to a genuine "M" engine (S55) in the Competition and CS variants raises the real average to nearly ten liters. Even so, this is still significantly less than the Lexus RC F. The traditional naturally aspirated five-liter V8 in the Japanese coupe simply requires more fuel, and its average consumption uncompromisingly approaches the 12 liters per 100 km mark. It may come as a surprise that BMW's more modern, smaller twin-turbocharged units do not just provide a flatter torque curve, but actually operate more efficiently even during dynamic driving. For drivers who plan to use the car not only for weekend drives but also for more frequent long trips or commuting, the Bavarian coupe represents a noticeably more economical choice with a longer range per tank.

Fuel consumption in premium sports cars with over 400 horsepower is usually not the main decision criterion, but the two-liter difference per hundred kilometers between the M2 Competition and RC F models is significant in the long run. BMW clearly benefits here from the advantages of sophisticated turbocharging and lower curb weight, while Lexus owners must accept that they will simply pay extra at the gas station for the irreplaceable mechanical character and rich sound of a disappearing, genuine V8.

Used Car Price Comparison

When looking for roughly four-year-old used cars (with a production year around 2021 to 2022), we enter very specific and price-attractive territory for both sports coupes. At this age, the cars have already undergone their largest initial drop in value but still offer completely modern technology and often an extended factory warranty. However, the used car market behaves diametrically differently for these two vehicles.

Availability and Market Character

• BMW M2: The market is very generous to those interested in the Bavarian coupe. A roughly four-year age means an attractive generational transition for buyers – you can come across both the top editions of the outgoing F87 generation (highly valued Competition versions and the rarer CS) and the first units of the brand-new G87 generation. Thanks to excellent sales of the new car, there is a huge selection of colors, equipment levels, and mileage conditions on the secondary market.
• Lexus RC F: From the perspective of the European used car market, this is a total unicorn. There is an absolute minimum of used RC F cars around four years old on the market. The naturally aspirated five-liter V8 was already a choice for specific connoisseurs at the time of sale. If you do come across a facelifted RC F, they are almost always carefully garaged cars with a clear service history, and you often encounter rare versions with carbon fiber accessories (e.g., Track Edition).

Approximate Price Range (cars approx. 4 years old)

Value Retention (Depreciation) and Service Reality

• Value Retention: The Lexus RC F is a master at retaining value. The concept of a large-displacement naturally aspirated V8 without turbochargers or electrification is practically dead on the new car market today, making it a highly valued and sought-after piece on the used market. For the BMW M2, standard versions and Competition models lose value at the more common rate of premium sports cars, with the exception of the low-volume CS version, which has huge potential for price growth among collectors.
• Maintenance Costs: Service costs for a used BMW "M" can be high, especially if the car has frequently visited the track. However, the advantage is a wide network of independent BMW M specialists and great availability of aftermarket parts. Lexus, on the other hand, requires care almost exclusively in the authorized network, where specific "F" division parts are extremely expensive (such as brake components). However, everything is compensated for by renowned Japanese reliability – the robust technology of the RC F is famous for practically never breaking down with regular basic maintenance.

Although customers automatically expect a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating for many related models and shared platforms of these premium brands, in the case of specific sports coupes, it is absolutely crucial to emphasize the context and the specific year of testing. The methodology and protocols of independent safety tests are constantly evolving and becoming significantly stricter over time. Percentage scores from different years simply cannot be objectively compared, as today's testing methodology now standardly includes very complex frontal impact simulations with partial offset, advanced cyclist detection, or emergency scenarios at confusing intersections.

The BMW M2, whose rating is based on the technically identical 2 Series Coupé (G42 generation), underwent Euro NCAP crash tests in March 2022. Due to these new and uncompromising rules, the car received a solid four-star rating. It performed very well in the area of passive protection for adults (82%) and children (81%). However, its autonomous emergency braking systems reached their limits in the most demanding crisis scenarios, such as turning across oncoming traffic or crossing paths with a passing cyclist, resulting in a score of 67% for vulnerable road user protection and 64% in the safety assist category. Despite the missing fifth star, this result clearly demonstrates that the M2 is a highly safe vehicle that meets the most modern requirements.

The Lexus RC F, on the other hand, has never undergone an official Euro NCAP crash test during its long production history (its basic platform dates back to 2014). It is a typically niche model with low sales volume, for which such independent testing is often not carried out in Europe at all – despite the fact that the related Lexus IS sedan received a full five stars in its time. Despite the absence of official percentage data from laboratories, the RC F is a safe car. During its life cycle, the manufacturer continuously equipped it with a generous Lexus Safety System+ active safety package, which standardly includes adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, or lane departure warning on four-year-old used cars.

In an overall comparison, the BMW M2 offers a demonstrably more modern and comprehensive safety architecture, which, unlike its Japanese competitor, has been independently verified according to current strict standards. It thus represents an objectively safer choice, although the Lexus RC F does not lag significantly behind in terms of safety in everyday traffic thanks to updated electronic assistants and a rigid body.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer, bringing a completely different approach to added value and the driving experience itself. While the German representative bets on modern technology and maximum customizability, its Japanese competitor adheres more to traditional values with an emphasis on top-tier craftsmanship and a naturally aspirated character.

BMW M2: Bavarian Precision and Digital Connectivity

The Bavarian coupe has long positioned itself as a tool for driving enthusiasts, which is reflected not only in its mechanics but also in the on-board technology that helps the driver analyze and improve their performance.

• Engine and Transmission: At the heart of the car is a twin-turbocharged inline-six. For automotive purists, a huge draw is the option of a classic manual transmission, which is rapidly disappearing from the sports coupe market. Naturally, a lightning-fast dual-clutch transmission (or an eight-speed automatic in the latest generation) is also available, featuring adjustable shift speed and aggressiveness.
• Chassis and Electronics: A key element is the Active M Differential and the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) system, which allows for safe drifting through more benevolent stability control intervention. The car's characteristics can be fully customized – the driver can mix and match engine response, steering weight, damper stiffness, and shift speed, saving them under the red M1 and M2 buttons located directly on the steering wheel for instant recall of a favorite setup.
• Infotainment and Connectivity: The iDrive multimedia system is among the most intuitive on the market, partly thanks to the retention of the physical rotary controller on the center console. Track day fans will appreciate the M Laptimer app, which can download detailed telemetry data (lap times, steering angle, G-forces) directly to a smartphone.
• Sport Versions: Higher specifications like the Competition or the exclusive CS version bring carbon fiber components (such as a carbon roof to lower the center of gravity), specific aerodynamic elements, and lightweight forged wheels, which significantly bolster the model's sporting spirit.

Lexus RC F: A Naturally Aspirated Rarity with Japanese Luxury

Lexus takes the path of a grand tourer with the soul of a supercar. It combines reliability and absolute comfort with a raw mechanical experience that is no longer found in most European competitors.

• Engine and Transmission: The Lexus RC F is one of the last of the Mohicans, hiding a full-blooded naturally aspirated 5.0 V8 engine under its hood. This unit rewards with linear power delivery, instant throttle response, and a fantastic, rich sound at high revs. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a specifically tuned eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission.
• Chassis and Dynamics Management: A completely unique optional feature is the Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD). Using electric motors, it actively distributes power between the rear wheels, helping the heavier car literally "rotate" into a corner. Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) then ensures typical Lexus comfort on broken roads and stiffness on high-quality asphalt.
• Infotainment and On-board Electronics: The interior boasts a motorized digital instrument cluster with a physically sliding ring – a detail the RC F borrowed from the legendary Lexus LFA supercar. Another strong draw for daily use is the premium Mark Levinson audio system, which transforms the cabin into a mobile concert hall thanks to its 17 speakers.
• Track Edition and Takumi Details: For the most demanding drivers, Lexus offers the Track Edition. It features carbon-ceramic brakes, a carbon fiber hood, roof, and a fixed rear wing, which radically reduces weight. Furthermore, the interior across all versions showcases Japanese Takumi craftsmanship with perfect stitching and the use of materials ranging from high-quality leather to Alcantara.

BMW M2 is an ideal choice for drivers looking for maximum driving pleasure, top-tier handling, and uncompromising sports performance. Thanks to its compact dimensions and explosive engine, it is the perfect tool for winding backroads and regular weekends at the racetrack.

The Lexus RC F will primarily appeal to lovers of classic naturally aspirated engines who appreciate the unmistakable V8 sound and bulletproof reliability. Instead of being a purebred track tool, it offers the character of a fast and comfortable coupe capable of covering long distances in total comfort.

Based on breakdown statistics, long-term owner experiences, and our data from physical inspections, such as a comprehensive car audit, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems you should watch out for when choosing these used sports cars.

BMW M2

The BMW M2 (with the Competition version powered by the S55 engine dominating among four-year-old used cars) is generally considered a robust driver's car, but it has its specific weak points associated with immense power and thermal stress.

• Engine: The most discussed issue with the S55 unit is the risk of the crank hub spinning. While this fatal failure occurs only exceptionally in stock vehicles, it is a real risk in modified cars, which is addressed by installing a more durable aftermarket component. More commonly, you will encounter cracked plastic charge pipes to the turbochargers and minor oil leaks from under the valve cover or the oil filter housing.
• Transmission: The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is mechanically very reliable, but it can jerk and make metallic noises during slow crawling in traffic jams, which is a normal characteristic of this system. With increasing mileage, transmission oil occasionally seeps through the lower plastic pan.
• Chassis and brakes: Powerful M sport brakes tend to squeal unpleasantly during light city braking. Owners often point out exceptionally fast wear of the rear tires. In units that spent a lot of time on the track, play may appear in the bushings of the rear differential and subframe.
• Infotainment and electronics: The iDrive onboard system is among the top in terms of stability; however, it can occasionally restart or freeze on its own. A minor but frequent nuisance is failing tire pressure sensors (TPMS) after several years of operation.

Lexus RC F

The Lexus RC F builds on legendary Japanese quality, and its honest naturally aspirated V8 is among the most durable high-performance engines on the market. Even so, it hasn't escaped a few expensive ailments.

• Engine: The 2UR-GSE power unit is mechanically almost bulletproof. A known but relatively expensive problem is a coolant leak into the space under the intake manifolds (the so-called valley plate leak). The part itself is cheap, but resealing it is highly demanding in terms of time and labor costs. On cars with higher mileage, the water pump also often starts to leak.
• Transmission and drivetrain: The standard eight-speed automatic works without the slightest hitch. However, watch out for cars equipped with the optional electronic Torque Vectoring Differential (TVD). It works great on the road and on the track, but if a mechanical or electronic failure occurs, repair and replacement are astronomically expensive. The standard limited-slip differential (Torsen) is a significantly safer choice for the wallet.
• Chassis and brakes: The RC F is a very heavy GT, which takes a heavy toll on the rapid wear of brake discs and pads. Specific factory geometry and stiffer front axle bushings also often cause excessive wear on the inner edges of the front tires.
• Infotainment and electronics: The outdated onboard system controlled by a touchpad is often criticized for freezing and slow responses. From the perspective of actual functional defects, HVAC servomotors fail very often. The problem manifests itself by the car suddenly stopping blowing cold air to the passenger side.

When buying a used sports car, a thorough inspection is absolutely crucial. For cars with such high performance, a comprehensive car inspection is worth it, as previous owners often pushed them to their full potential. Here are several specific points to focus on for these two models.

When choosing a BMW M2:

• Break-in service history: For BMW M division models, it is absolutely critical that the initial service is performed after approximately 2,000 kilometers (includes engine and differential oil changes). Carefully check this record in the service history. If it is missing, the car may have lost its warranty, and there is a higher risk of excessive drivetrain wear.
• Crank hub issues: Especially if you are choosing a generation with the S55 engine (Competition or CS version), focus on the engine's operation and error messages. This engine suffers from the risk of the crank hub spinning, which can lead to fatal engine destruction. Ask the seller if a preventative modification (the so-called aftermarket crank hub fix) has already been performed on the car.
• DCT gearbox behavior: With the dual-clutch automatic transmission, monitor the smoothness of shifts during the test drive. It should not jerk significantly when crawling in traffic or reversing. If you feel strong jolts or hesitation, it could indicate oil leaks from the mechatronics or the need for expensive software and mechanical intervention.
• Brake disc wear: The M2 is an aggressive and agile car that "eats" brake components quickly. Carefully run your finger along the outer edge of the brake disc. If you feel a deep lip or if the discs are discolored blue (a result of overheating on the track), prepare a significant budget for an early brake replacement.
• Front axle noises: During the test drive, intentionally drive over several bumps or recessed manhole covers. Any metallic clicking or dull thuds from the front wheels often indicate worn upper strut mounts or blown bushings, which is the price for a stiff sports suspension.

When choosing a Lexus RC F:

• Condition of front tires and control arms: The extremely heavy naturally aspirated V8 on the front axle takes a toll on the lower control arm bushings. These often fail, leading to significant tire wear on the inner side. Carefully check the inner edge of the front tires – if it is worn down to the cords, the car will need new control arms (or harder bushings) and a wheel alignment.
• Water pump check: Although the 5.0 V8 (2UR-GSE) engine is considered one of the most reliable sports engines ever, its weak point is often the water pump, which can start leaking around the 100,000-kilometer mark. Open the hood and look for dried pinkish coolant crystals on the front of the engine block.
• Squealing and condition of massive brakes: The six-piston Brembo brakes on the RC F tend to squeal during light braking in the city, which is a characteristic of the pad material, not necessarily a defect. However, due to the car's high weight (nearly 1.9 tons), the pads and discs wear out extremely quickly. Therefore, check the depth of the grooves on the discs in detail before buying.
• Eight-speed automatic response: The Aisin torque converter transmission is designed for heavy loads and is mechanically very durable. However, during a cold test drive, try manual shifting with the paddles under the steering wheel. If there are noticeable delays or dull thuds when downshifting from higher gears, the transmission fluid is likely already burnt and requires an immediate flush and replacement.
• Touchpad and display functionality: The infotainment system in Lexuses from these years is controlled via a touchpad on the center console. Test whether the system responds smoothly to every finger swipe and whether the screen suffers from delamination (bubbles forming or layers peeling at the corners of the display), which would require replacing the entire module. In this regard, a physical inspection of the car is essential, during which a mechanic will check the electronics, including a diagnostic readout.

Sources: ADAC, lidovky.cz, auto.cz, mobilmania.cz, autorevue.cz, dopravacek.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.