1996 BMW 540 vs. 2003 Scion xB
To start off, 2003 Scion xB 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 176 more horse power than 2003 Scion xB. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2003 Scion xB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 705 kg more than 2003 Scion xB. 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 Scion xB, 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 298 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Scion xB. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Scion xB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2003 Scion xB | |
| Make | BMW | Scion |
| Model | 540 | xB |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 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 | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
