1996 BMW 535 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Sharan 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 121 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Sharan. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 129 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, 2004 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Sharan (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535. 2004 Volkswagen Sharan 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 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2004 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 535 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1739 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
