1996 BMW 535 vs. 2003 Honda Element
To start off, 2003 Honda Element is newer by 7 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 77 more horse power than 2003 Honda Element. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda Element weights approximately 20 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, 2003 Honda Element, 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda Element. (216 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2003 Honda Element | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 535 | Element |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
