2008 BMW 540 vs. 2003 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 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 425 kg more than 2003 BMW 320.
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 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 320 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 | 2003 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 540 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1995 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 142 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
