1981 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Lexus IS is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 235 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. 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, 2005 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2005 Lexus IS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | 520 | IS |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1455 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |