2005 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW 535
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 is newer by 9 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 7 more horse power than 2005 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
