2009 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Lexus SC
To start off, 2009 BMW 520 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 BMW 520. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 520 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1996 Lexus SC.
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, 1996 Lexus SC (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 520. (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 520 | 1996 Lexus SC | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 520 | SC |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
