1988 BMW 530 vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 1998 Lexus ES is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1988 BMW 530. (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 63 kg more than 1998 Lexus ES.
Because 1988 BMW 530 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 530 | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 530 | ES |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
