1999 BMW 323 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1999 BMW 323.
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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
