1996 BMW 540 vs. 2001 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Trans Am is newer by 5 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Trans Am. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Trans Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Trans Am. 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, 2001 Pontiac Trans Am (455 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2001 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 540 | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 455 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
