2005 BMW 535 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 2005 BMW 535 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2005 BMW 535. (241 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 535 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1995 BMW S3.
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, 2005 BMW 535 (345 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2005 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 535 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
