1992 BMW 540 vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 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 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1992 BMW 540.
Because 2009 BMW X3 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 X3 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2009 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
