1999 BMW 540 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 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 182 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 691 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
