1996 BMW 540 vs. 2005 BMW X5
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 9 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 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2005 BMW X5. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2005 BMW X5 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, 2005 BMW X5 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, 2005 BMW X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2005 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 520 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 93 L |
