2006 BMW X5 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 10 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2006 BMW X5. (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2006 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X5 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X5. (290 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2981 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 18.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 70 L |
