1988 BMW 535 vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 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 31 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1988 BMW 535.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 63 L |
