1996 BMW 540 vs. 2010 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2010 Opel Insignia 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 144 more horse power than 2010 Opel Insignia. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2010 Opel Insignia.
Because 1996 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Opel Insignia, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Opel Insignia. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Opel Insignia. 2010 Opel Insignia 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. 2010 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2010 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 540 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2737 mm |
