1988 BMW 535 vs. 1984 Toyota Starlet

To start off, 1988 BMW 535 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Toyota Starlet 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 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1984 Toyota Starlet. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1984 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 835 kg more than 1984 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 535 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Toyota Starlet, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Toyota Starlet. (75 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Toyota Starlet. 1988 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1984 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1984 Toyota Starlet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 535 1984 Toyota Starlet
Make BMW Toyota
Model 535 Starlet
Year Released 1988 1984
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3430 cc 999 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 211 HP 54 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 75 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 70.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 64 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 795 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1600 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2310 mm