1996 BMW 540 vs. 2003 MG ZT-T
To start off, 2003 MG ZT-T 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 95 more horse power than 2003 MG ZT-T. (187 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2003 MG ZT-T. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2003 MG ZT-T. 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, 2003 MG ZT-T, 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MG ZT-T. (250 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MG ZT-T.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2003 MG ZT-T | |
| Make | BMW | MG |
| Model | 540 | ZT-T |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
