1996 BMW 540 vs. 1991 Proton Saloon
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Proton Saloon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Proton Saloon 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 215 more horse power than 1991 Proton Saloon. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1991 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1991 Proton Saloon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Proton Saloon, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Proton Saloon. (102 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Proton Saloon. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1991 Proton Saloon has manual transmission. 1991 Proton Saloon 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 | 1991 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | BMW | Proton |
| Model | 540 | Saloon |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2390 mm |
