1999 BMW 540 vs. 2012 Porsche Cayenne
To start off, 2012 Porsche Cayenne is newer by 13 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, 2012 Porsche Cayenne (380 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1999 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Cayenne weights approximately 469 kg more than 1999 BMW 540. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Porsche Cayenne is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Cayenne will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Porsche Cayenne (578 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 540. (439 Nm). This means 2012 Porsche Cayenne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 540. 2012 Porsche Cayenne has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Porsche Cayenne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 2012 Porsche Cayenne | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 540 | Cayenne |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 380 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 578 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4846 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1939 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1712 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2896 mm |
