1996 BMW 523 vs. 1999 Lexus ES
To start off, 1999 Lexus ES is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus ES (277 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1999 Lexus ES.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Lexus ES (291 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm). This means 1999 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523. 1999 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 1999 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 523 | ES |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
