1991 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 18 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 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 65 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 518 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 518 | CL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2960 mm |
