1995 BMW 525 vs. 1974 BMW 518
To start off, 1995 BMW 525 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 525 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1995 BMW 525 (285 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm). This means 1995 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 525 | 1974 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | 518 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
