1998 BMW 323 vs. 1974 BMW 518
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 307 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, 1998 BMW 323 (246 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1974 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 518 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
