2005 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2005 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW M3. (337 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
