2008 Volkswagen Transporter vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Transporter. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Transporter would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 499 kg more than 2011 BMW 535.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter, 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 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Transporter. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Transporter. 2011 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Transporter has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter 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:
| 2008 Volkswagen Transporter | 2011 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Transporter | 535 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2460 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 300 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2344 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2000 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
