1974 BMW 518 vs. 2003 Buick Rainier
To start off, 2003 Buick Rainier is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Buick Rainier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Buick Rainier (286 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Buick Rainier should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Buick Rainier weights approximately 965 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Buick Rainier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Buick Rainier 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, 2003 Buick Rainier (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Buick Rainier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2003 Buick Rainier | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 518 | Rainier |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2880 mm |
