1996 BMW 535 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 97 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat, 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 535 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
