1990 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2008 Buick LaCrosse 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 500 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, 2008 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2008 Buick LaCrosse 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 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 518 | 2008 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 518 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
