2009 BMW 325 vs. 1992 BMW 540
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 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 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2009 BMW 325. (194 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2009 BMW 325. 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, 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. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1721 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
