1996 BMW 540 vs. 2003 Ford F-150
To start off, 2003 Ford F-150 is newer by 7 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 80 more horse power than 2003 Ford F-150. (202 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford F-150. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford F-150 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2003 Ford F-150 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, 2003 Ford F-150 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford F-150. (338 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford F-150. 2003 Ford F-150 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. 2003 Ford F-150 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2003 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 540 | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3050 mm |
