1996 BMW 540 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 7,255 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12 (582 HP) has 300 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12 weights approximately 457 kg more than 1996 BMW 540. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12 (773 Nm) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz T V-12 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 540 | T V-12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 7255 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 582 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 773 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 2302 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
