1988 BMW 535 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 24 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 33 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| 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 | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 57 L |
