1996 BMW 540 vs. 2010 BMW X3
To start off, 2010 BMW X3 is newer by 14 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 22 more horse power than 2010 BMW X3. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2010 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW X3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2010 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW X3 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2010 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4569 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1676 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
