1990 BMW 518 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 314 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 518 | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 518 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
