1996 BMW 540 vs. 1999 BMW 330
To start off, 1999 BMW 330 is newer by 3 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 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 1999 BMW 330. (183 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1999 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 330 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, 1999 BMW 330 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 330. (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 330. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 330 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 | 1999 BMW 330 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 540 | 330 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4396 cc | 2977 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 183 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 390 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 93 L |