2008 BMW X5 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X5. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X5. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X5 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 X5 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 282 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2080 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.2 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
