2009 Audi A6 vs. 1996 BMW 540

To start off, 2009 Audi A6 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 30 more horse power than 2009 Audi A6. (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2009 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A6. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A6.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A6 1996 BMW 540
Make Audi BMW
Model A6 540
Year Released 2009 1996
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3123 cc 4397 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 5 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 252 HP 282 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 440 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.5 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 82.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 13.0:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.9 seconds 6.3 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1540 kg 1815 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2830 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.9 L/100km 12.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L