1996 BMW 540 vs. 1988 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 50 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 1988 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1988 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1988 Chevrolet Astro 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 | 1988 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 540 | Astro |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
