1988 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW 535
To start off, 2008 BMW 535 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 535 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 535 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW 535 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2008 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
