1999 BMW 540 vs. 1971 Porsche 917
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Porsche 917. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Porsche 917 would be higher. At 4,994 cc, 1971 Porsche 917 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Porsche 917 (520 HP) has 238 more horse power than 1999 BMW 540. (282 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Porsche 917 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 973 kg more than 1971 Porsche 917.
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, 1971 Porsche 917 (610 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 540. (439 Nm). This means 1971 Porsche 917 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 1971 Porsche 917 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 540 | 917 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4994 cc |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 520 HP |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 610 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 798 kg |
