1996 BMW 540 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mercedes-Benz E. (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 540 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
