1974 BMW 518 vs. 2008 BMW X5
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 34 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 310 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 2008 BMW X5 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, 2008 BMW X5 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, 2008 BMW X5 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518. 2008 BMW X5 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. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2008 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 518 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 85 L |
