2008 BMW 545 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 2008 BMW 545 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
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, both vehicles can yield 450 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 545 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 545 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
