1978 BMW 320 vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 2011 BMW 535. (311 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 535 weights approximately 950 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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. 2011 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 2011 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2968 mm |
