2009 BMW X3 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 21 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. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 306 kg more than 1988 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1988 BMW 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
