1974 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2009 Opel Insignia 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Insignia (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518.
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, 2009 Opel Insignia, 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, 2009 Opel Insignia (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2009 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 518 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2737 mm |
