1959 BMW Isetta vs. 1992 BMW 540
To start off, 1992 BMW 540 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP) has 269 more horse power than 1959 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 1361 kg more than 1959 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1959 BMW Isetta has manual transmission. 1959 BMW Isetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW Isetta | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Isetta | 540 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 3982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | V |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 282 HP |
| Top Speed | 85 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 1721 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2770 mm |
