2011 Lexus IS vs. 1979 BMW M1
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1979 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1979 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 300 kg more than 1979 BMW M1. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 BMW M1. 2011 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1979 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1979 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Lexus IS | 1979 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Lexus | BMW |
| Model | IS | M1 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1801 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1425 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2728 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 116 L |
