1990 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 21 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 487 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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2011 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. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 316 | IS |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
