1974 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-7 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 92 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, 2008 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518. 2008 Mazda CX-7 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 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2008 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 518 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 69 L |
