1988 BMW 730 vs. 2009 BMW 535
To start off, 2009 BMW 535 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1988 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 730 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2009 BMW 535.
Because 2009 BMW 535 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 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, 2009 BMW 535 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 730. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 730 | 2009 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2984 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
