1996 BMW 540 vs. 2011 Audi S4
To start off, 2011 Audi S4 is newer by 15 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, 2011 Audi S4 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2011 Audi S4 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, 2011 Audi S4 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 | 2011 Audi S4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 540 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
