1996 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 290 kg more than 1996 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 316 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | BMW | Lexus |
Model | 316 | IS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 375 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |