1990 BMW 518 vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 18 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 356 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 2008 BMW 330 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, 2008 BMW 330 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, 2008 BMW 330 (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 518 | 2008 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 518 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 194 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
