1988 BMW 535 vs. 2009 Lexus LS

To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 21 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 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (280 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 310 kg more than 1988 BMW 535. 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, 2009 Lexus LS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535. 2009 Lexus LS 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. 2009 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 535 2009 Lexus LS
Make BMW Lexus
Model 535 LS
Year Released 1988 2009
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3430 cc 4293 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 215 HP 280 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 417 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 91 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 82.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1530 kg 1840 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2930 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 84 L