2008 BMW 540 vs. 1997 Rover 200
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Rover 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Rover 200 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 530 kg more than 1997 Rover 200.
Because 2008 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Rover 200, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 200. (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 200. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1997 Rover 200 has manual transmission. 1997 Rover 200 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 | 1997 Rover 200 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 540 | 200 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1994 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
