1990 BMW 518 vs. 1978 BMW 320
To start off, 1990 BMW 518 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 528 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 518 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 518 | 1978 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 518 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 641 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 9000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
