1996 BMW 540 vs. 1979 Porsche 936
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Porsche 936. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Porsche 936 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Porsche 936 (573 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Porsche 936 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 1033 kg more than 1979 Porsche 936.
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. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1979 Porsche 936 has manual transmission. 1979 Porsche 936 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 | 1979 Porsche 936 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 540 | 936 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 573 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 702 kg |
