1996 BMW 535 vs. 2006 Ford E-350
To start off, 2006 Ford E-350 is newer by 10 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 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1246 kg more than 1996 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Ford E-350, 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, 2006 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2006 Ford E-350 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 535 | E-350 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 5406 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2856 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 2120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 132 L |
