1990 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Lexus GS
To start off, 2008 Lexus GS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,604 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus GS (342 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 87 kg more than 2008 Lexus GS.
Because 2008 Lexus GS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lexus GS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Lexus GS (460 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520. 2008 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2008 Lexus GS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 520 | GS |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 239 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
