1996 BMW 535 vs. 2009 BMW 135
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 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, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 342 kg more than 2009 BMW 135.
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 135 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 135 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 135 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | 135 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
