2009 BMW 323 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2009 BMW 323 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 107 more horse power than 2009 BMW 323. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 323.
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 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 323. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 323 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 323 | 540 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 282 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 440 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |