1996 BMW 535 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 183 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 535 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
