Neoseeker provides an awesome guide for those who are interested in seeing the details of the graphics performance with The Sims 3.  They tweak all of the graphic settings and report how well the game runs (fps) with each option, as well as providing pictures and even benchmarks.

1. Introduction
2. Screen settings
3. Object Hiding, Reflections
4. Animation Smoothing, Advanced Rendering
5. Edge Smoothing (AA)
6. Visual Effects
7. Lighting and Shadows, Tree Detail
8. Draw Distance, High Detail Lots
9. Texture and Sim Detail
10. Recommended settings
11. Video card benchmarks

NeoSeeker – The Sims 3 Graphics Performance Guide