1996 BMW 540 vs. 1972 Buick GS

To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,723 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1972 Buick GS. (190 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1972 Buick GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1972 Buick GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Buick GS. (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Buick GS. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1972 Buick GS has manual transmission. 1972 Buick GS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 540 1972 Buick GS
Make BMW Buick
Model 540 GS
Year Released 1996 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4398 cc 5723 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 282 HP 190 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 440 Nm 394 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 2800 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1735 kg 1630 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 5180 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1960 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2860 mm


 

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