1988 BMW 535 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 20 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 53 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1988 BMW 535.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 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 | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 67 L |
