1974 BMW 518 vs. 2009 BMW 325
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 35 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 435 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 2009 BMW 325 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, 2009 BMW 325 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, 2009 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2009 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 518 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
