1990 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 19 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (357 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 323 kg more than 1990 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus LS 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, 2009 Lexus LS 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, 2009 Lexus LS (466 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520. 2009 Lexus LS 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. 2009 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 520 | 2009 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 520 | LS |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 357 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 466 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2980 mm |
