1975 BMW 316 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1975 BMW 316.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 316 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 4398 cc |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
