1977 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Lexus ES
To start off, 1996 Lexus ES is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1977 BMW 320. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus ES weights approximately 410 kg more than 1977 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1977 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 320. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 320. 1996 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1977 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1977 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 320 | 1996 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 320 | ES |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
