1996 BMW 535 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 13 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 57 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 222 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
