1992 BMW 540 vs. 2006 BMW 330
To start off, 2006 BMW 330 is newer by 14 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 53 more horse power than 2006 BMW 330. (229 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 330 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1992 BMW 540.
Because 2006 BMW 330 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, 2006 BMW 330 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 330. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2006 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |
