1992 BMW 540 vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 1997 Saturn SL 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 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 666 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL. 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, 1997 Saturn SL, 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 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1997 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1997 Saturn SL 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 | 1997 Saturn SL | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 540 | SL |
Year Released | 1992 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3982 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1721 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |