2008 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 18.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
