1996 BMW 535 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 390 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 @ 3300 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 535 | V |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |
