1988 BMW 535 vs. 1961 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1988 BMW 535 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen 1500 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 594 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen 1500. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 1961 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 535 | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2430 mm |
