1989 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Infiniti QX56
To start off, 2009 Infiniti QX56 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 5,552 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Infiniti QX56 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Infiniti QX56 (320 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Infiniti QX56 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Infiniti QX56 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Infiniti QX56 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Infiniti QX56 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 Infiniti QX56 (533 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Infiniti QX56 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518. 2009 Infiniti QX56 has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Infiniti QX56 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 2009 Infiniti QX56 | |
| Make | BMW | Infiniti |
| Model | 518 | QX56 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 5552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 533 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 2010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3140 mm |
