1996 BMW 540 vs. 1999 BMW M28i
To start off, 1999 BMW M28i 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 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1999 BMW M28i. (250 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW M28i. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1999 BMW M28i. 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW M28i. (355 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW M28i.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1999 BMW M28i | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | M28i |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2840 mm |
