1984 BMW 725 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 725 would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine.
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 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 725 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2840 mm |
