1990 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2008 Cadillac STS 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac STS (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac STS weights approximately 475 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 Cadillac STS 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 Cadillac STS 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 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2008 Cadillac STS 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 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 518 | 2008 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 518 | STS |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 64 L |
