1996 BMW 540 vs. 2008 Hummer H3
To start off, 2008 Hummer H3 is newer by 12 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 40 more horse power than 2008 Hummer H3. (242 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 Hummer H3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hummer H3 weights approximately 417 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2008 Hummer H3 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, 2008 Hummer H3 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hummer H3. (328 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hummer H3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2008 Hummer H3 | |
| Make | BMW | Hummer |
| Model | 540 | H3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 3653 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.7 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 87 L |
