1990 BMW 316 vs. 2010 Lexus IS

To start off, 2010 Lexus IS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus IS weights approximately 635 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. 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, 2010 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 361 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2010 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2010 Lexus IS
Make BMW Lexus
Model 316 IS
Year Released 1990 2010
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 5000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 100 HP 416 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 502 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 5200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1715 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4661 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1816 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1415 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2731 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 64 L