1996 BMW 540 vs. 1992 Volvo 960
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 960 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 95 more horse power than 1992 Volvo 960. (187 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1992 Volvo 960. 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. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1992 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1992 Volvo 960 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 | 1992 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 540 | 960 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2780 mm |
