1988 BMW 535 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 17 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, 2005 BMW 525 (225 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1988 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 525 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, 2005 BMW 525 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, 1988 BMW 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 525. 1988 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW 525 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 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
