1996 BMW 535 vs. 1981 BMW 745
To start off, 1996 BMW 535 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. Both 1996 BMW 535 and 1981 BMW 745 are equipped with a 3,430 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 72 kg more than 1981 BMW 745.
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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 1981 BMW 745 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | 745 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
