1991 BMW 518 vs. 2006 BMW X3
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1991 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 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, 2006 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 518 | 2006 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 518 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2800 mm |
