1974 BMW 518 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 116 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, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 518 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
