1981 BMW 518 vs. 2006 Lexus GS
To start off, 2006 Lexus GS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus GS (245 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus GS weights approximately 555 kg more than 1981 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Lexus GS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Lexus GS (312 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2006 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2006 Lexus GS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 518 | GS |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
