1998 BMW 318 vs. 1974 BMW 518
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 24 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 90 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1974 BMW 518.
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, 1998 BMW 318 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1974 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 518 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
