1996 BMW 540 vs. 2002 Chrysler Sebring
To start off, 2002 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 6 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 133 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. (149 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 363 kg more than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler Sebring, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 214 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chrysler Sebring. 2002 Chrysler Sebring has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chrysler Sebring will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2002 Chrysler Sebring | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 540 | Sebring |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
