1996 BMW 535 vs. 2007 BMW X3
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 11 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 87 more horse power than 2007 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
Because 2007 BMW X3 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, 2007 BMW X3 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, 2007 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2007 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
