2008 BMW 525 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 12 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 67 more horse power than 2008 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2008 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 525 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, 2008 BMW 525 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
