The Lexus GS F proves that is not all about horsepower

Last Updated: June 12, 2017By Mary J.Tags: Auto Moto World, Automotoworld, Car, Lexus, Lexus car, Lexus vehicle, US, Vehicle, World

On paper, the Lexus GS F has nothing on a previous-gen BMW M5. On a wet Welsh road, the Lexus rules.

With only 467 horsepower to play with, the Lexus GS F pales in comparison to its German rivals, at least on paper. There’s no way it could be better than a previous-gen M5, specifically, the 600-hp 30th Anniversary edition, right? Well, the Lexus certainly isn’t as fast as the BMW, but in the real world, you might like the GS F better.

Top Gear‘s Chris Harris got the pair together for a test on a wet Welsh back road where the Lexus’ superior ride

Top Gear‘s Chris Harris got the pair together for a test on a wet Welsh back road where the Lexus’ superior ride, handling, and traction left the BMW in the dust. Where the BMW was difficult to drive, the Lexus was a joy.

And back to the GS F’s 467 horsepower. It comes from a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that revs to 7500 rpm, and sounds fantastic doing so. This motor doesn’t have too much low-end torque, but there are huge rewards for taking it out to redline.

Don’t forget that Harris is driving an old M5. BMW is bringing all-wheel drive to the next-gen M5, which should fix its traction problems. Perhaps a re-match next year is necessary in that case.