1974 BMW 518 vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 38 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 119 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 518 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1359 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4567 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
