1996 BMW 535 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1220 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
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 Mercedes-Benz Viano, 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 Mercedes-Benz Viano (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 535 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 535 | Viano |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2148 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 235 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 88.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3210 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |