1999 BMW 540 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1999 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 116 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
