1996 BMW 535 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 148 kg more than 1996 BMW 535. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 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 M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3900 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 | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
