1974 BMW 518 vs. 2007 BMW 530
To start off, 2007 BMW 530 is newer by 33 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 530 weights approximately 425 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 2007 BMW 530 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, 2007 BMW 530 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, 2007 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518. 2007 BMW 530 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. 2007 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2007 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 518 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
