1996 BMW 540 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 16 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 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (560 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
Because 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (539 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540. 2012 Audi R8 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. 2012 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 540 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1267 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
