1999 BMW 540 vs. 2010 BMW 120
To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2010 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2010 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 246 kg more than 2010 BMW 120. 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 239 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 BMW 120. (200 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 2010 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 200 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
