2008 BMW 535 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW 535 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 535 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 535 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 535 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, 2008 BMW 535 (407 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 535 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
