1988 BMW M5 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 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. 1988 BMW M5 weights approximately 28 kg more than 2008 BMW 540.
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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M5. (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 253 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1733 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
