2009 BMW 135 vs. 1992 BMW 540
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1992 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2009 BMW 135.
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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 135 | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 135 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
