1987 BMW 318 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 530 weights approximately 784 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 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, 2006 BMW 530 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 318 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 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 | 966 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
