1996 BMW 540 vs. 2007 BMW 323
To start off, 2007 BMW 323 is newer by 11 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 107 more horse power than 2007 BMW 323. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 291 kg more than 2007 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 323. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 323. 2007 BMW 323 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. 2007 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2007 BMW 323 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2497 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
