1996 BMW 535 vs. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino
To start off, 1996 BMW 535 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. At 4,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet El Camino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (271 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 535 | El Camino |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2980 mm |
