1992 BMW 540 vs. 2009 BMW 330
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 17 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 54 more horse power than 2009 BMW 330. (228 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 54 kg more than 1992 BMW 540.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 BMW 330 (501 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 540. (400 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 540. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 330 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 | 2009 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 501 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1721 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
