1974 BMW 518 vs. 2007 Mazda 2
To start off, 2007 Mazda 2 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 518 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2007 Mazda 2. 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, 2007 Mazda 2, 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, 1974 BMW 518 (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2007 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 518 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
