1972 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 150 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 100 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | 520 | IS |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2231 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1545 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |