2009 BMW M3 vs. 2012 BMW 535
To start off, 2012 BMW 535 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2012 BMW 535. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 535.
Because 2012 BMW 535 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 BMW 535 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2012 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2012 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
