1996 BMW 540 vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (44 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 775 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 540 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 43 L |
