1979 BMW 320 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 1988 BMW 535 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 430 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 770 kg more than 1979 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 320 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2770 mm |
