1996 BMW 540 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 540 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
