2008 BMW 540 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 540 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. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 575 kg more than 2008 BMW 540.
Because 2012 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen T5. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 540 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2459 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 172 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
