1996 BMW 535 vs. 2009 Lexus ES
To start off, 2009 Lexus ES is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus ES (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 Lexus ES.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Lexus ES (345 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535. 2009 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2009 Lexus ES | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 535 | ES |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
