1992 BMW 540 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 20 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 110 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 657 kg more than 1992 BMW 540.
Because 2012 Volkswagen T5 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 540 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
