2005 BMW 330 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2005 BMW 330 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2005 BMW 330. (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2005 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 330. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 330 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
