1981 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Lexus GS
To start off, 2012 Lexus GS is newer by 31 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus GS (342 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus GS weights approximately 569 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, 2012 Lexus GS (459 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2012 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2012 Lexus GS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | 520 | GS |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 342 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1789 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4826 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1821 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1425 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 71 L |