1981 BMW 518 vs. 2010 Lexus IS
To start off, 2010 Lexus IS is newer by 29 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus IS weights approximately 602 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.
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, 2010 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2010 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 518 | IS |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2731 mm |
