1997 Lexus ES vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 210 kg more than 2011 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus ES | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Lexus | BMW |
| Model | ES | 120 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
