1980 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Lexus GS
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (303 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1980 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 670 kg more than 1980 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus GS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Lexus GS (372 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316. 2009 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 316 | 2009 Lexus GS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 316 | GS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 71 L |
