1988 BMW 535 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 255 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.
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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535. 1988 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW M3 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 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
