1996 BMW 540 vs. 1978 Skoda L
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Skoda L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Skoda L 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 1978 Skoda L. (44 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1978 Skoda L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 910 kg more than 1978 Skoda L. 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 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Skoda L. (74 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Skoda L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1978 Skoda L | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 540 | L |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1046 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 68.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 38 L |
