1974 BMW 518 vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 300 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.
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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 518 | IS |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
