1992 BMW 540 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1992 BMW 540 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 540 | M3 |
Year Released | 1992 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3980 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 236 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |