1974 BMW 518 vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 30 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 80 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 1974 BMW 518 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 518 | L |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
