1991 BMW M12 vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 1998 Lexus ES is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1998 Lexus ES. (218 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus ES.
Because 1991 BMW M12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1991 BMW M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus ES. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M12 | ES |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2680 mm |
