1990 BMW 518 vs. 2007 BMW 530
To start off, 2007 BMW 530 is newer by 17 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 530 weights approximately 305 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 2007 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 518 | 2007 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 518 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 194 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
