2008 BMW 540 vs. 1980 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 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 665 kg more than 1980 BMW 316.
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 @ 3600 RPM) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 540 | 1980 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1573 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 71 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
