1992 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,987 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1992 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1138 kg more than 1992 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 518. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1992 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1992 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 518 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 518 | R |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2987 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3220 mm |
