1986 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1986 BMW Z1. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 569 kg more than 1986 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Lexus IS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW Z1. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW Z1. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW Z1 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | Z1 | IS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 998 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 65 L |
