2009 Acura RDX vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2009 Acura RDX is newer by 13 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 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Acura RDX. (237 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 Acura RDX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 31 kg more than 2009 Acura RDX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Acura RDX 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, 2009 Acura RDX 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 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura RDX. (260 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura RDX. 2009 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RDX | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RDX | 540 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1784 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 18.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
