1996 BMW 540 vs. 1973 ZIL 117
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 ZIL 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 ZIL 117 would be higher. At 6,959 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 ZIL 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 ZIL 117 (296 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 ZIL 117 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 ZIL 117 weights approximately 1107 kg more than 1996 BMW 540. 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, 1973 ZIL 117 (570 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 ZIL 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1973 ZIL 117 | |
| Make | BMW | ZIL |
| Model | 540 | 117 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 6959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 2952 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3310 mm |
