1996 BMW 535 vs. 2001 BMW M3
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 5 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, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535. 2001 BMW M3 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. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
