1992 BMW 540 vs. 1971 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1992 BMW 540 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Peugeot 304 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1971 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1971 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 806 kg more than 1971 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1992 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Peugeot 304, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Peugeot 304. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1971 Peugeot 304 has manual transmission. 1971 Peugeot 304 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:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 1971 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 540 | 304 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1721 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 42 L |
