1996 BMW 535 vs. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 436 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.
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, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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, 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 535 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
