1996 BMW 540 vs. 2012 BMW 640
To start off, 2012 BMW 640 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 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2012 BMW 640 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 640 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 0 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4894 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1894 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
