1974 Abarth 124 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Abarth 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Abarth 124 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1974 Abarth 124. (126 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1974 Abarth 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 865 kg more than 1974 Abarth 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Abarth 124. (157 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Abarth 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Abarth 124 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 124 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1735 kg |
