1996 BMW 535 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 20 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (215 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (310 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 535 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
