2008 BMW 540 vs. 1996 Porsche 993
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche 993 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 345 kg more than 1996 Porsche 993.
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 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Porsche 993. (342 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Porsche 993. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1996 Porsche 993 has manual transmission. 1996 Porsche 993 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 | 1996 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 540 | 993 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3600 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 282 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 342 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 76.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2280 mm |
