1996 BMW 535 vs. 2012 BMW 123
To start off, 2012 BMW 123 is newer by 16 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 30 more horse power than 2012 BMW 123. (202 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 123. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 47 kg more than 2012 BMW 123. 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, 2012 BMW 123 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 123 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2012 BMW 123 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | 123 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| 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 | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
