1996 BMW 540 vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram is newer by 2 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 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (242 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram 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, 1998 Dodge Ram 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram 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 | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 540 | Ram |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 5899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 453 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2790 mm |
