2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
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, 1988 BMW 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
