1992 BMW 540 vs. 2003 BMW X5
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 11 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1992 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1992 BMW 540. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2003 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 2195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 93 L |
