1992 BMW 538 vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 538. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 538 would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2009 Lexus IS. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 538 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2009 Lexus IS. 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 538 | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 538 | IS |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 15.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
