1996 BMW 535 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 12 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 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 302 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 4700 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2500 mm |
