1996 BMW 540 vs. 1964 DKW F 102
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 DKW F 102. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 DKW F 102 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1964 DKW F 102. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1964 DKW F 102. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 905 kg more than 1964 DKW F 102. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 DKW F 102, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 337 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 DKW F 102. (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 DKW F 102.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1964 DKW F 102 | |
| Make | BMW | DKW |
| Model | 540 | F 102 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 1175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 68 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 31 L |
