1996 BMW 540 vs. 2009 Audi A6
To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 13 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A6 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2009 Audi A6 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, 2009 Audi A6 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, both vehicles can yield 440 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2009 Audi A6 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 540 | A6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4934 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2833 mm |
