1996 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 535 (311 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Barchetta.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 2011 BMW 535 (600 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. 2011 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Barchetta has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Barchetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Barchetta | 2011 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Fiat | BMW |
| Model | Barchetta | 535 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2968 mm |
