1996 BMW 540 vs. 1961 Chrysler Imperial
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chrysler Imperial. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chrysler Imperial would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1961 Chrysler Imperial. (276 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1961 Chrysler Imperial. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 515 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 540 | 1961 Chrysler Imperial | |
Make | BMW | Chrysler |
Model | 540 | Imperial |
Year Released | 1996 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4396 cc | 5802 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 276 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 2360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 6170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2020 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3800 mm |