1974 BMW 518 vs. 2007 Lexus LS
To start off, 2007 Lexus LS 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 4,608 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus LS (380 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 290 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518.
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, 2007 Lexus LS (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518. 2007 Lexus LS 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 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2007 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 518 | LS |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 4608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 380 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2980 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 84 L |
