2006 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 10 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 81 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
