1996 BMW 535 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 3,498 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 2008 Volkswagen Sharan. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 96 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, 2008 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, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 535 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1895 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 | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1706 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 |
