2009 BMW 118 vs. 1999 BMW 540
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2009 BMW 118. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 386 kg more than 2009 BMW 118. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 118. (180 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 118 | 1999 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 118 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1771 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2840 mm |
