1999 BMW 540 vs. 1978 BMW 628
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 628 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 BMW 628. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 628.
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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 628. (260 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 628.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 1978 BMW 628 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 628 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
