1988 BMW 535 vs. 1999 Lexus ES

To start off, 1999 Lexus ES is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1999 Lexus ES. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus ES.

Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1988 BMW 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus ES. (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus ES. 1999 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 535 1999 Lexus ES
Make BMW Lexus
Model 535 ES
Year Released 1988 1999
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3430 cc 2997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 215 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 298 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 86 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1530 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
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 75 L