1996 BMW 535 vs. 1978 Opel Rekord

To start off, 1996 BMW 535 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 558 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 535 1978 Opel Rekord
Make BMW Opel
Model 535 Rekord
Year Released 1996 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3430 cc 1689 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 232 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1662 kg 1104 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2680 mm