1974 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1070 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 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 485 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 518 | ML |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 250 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 | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
