2003 BMW 530 vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 2003 BMW 530 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 530 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1990 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, 2003 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2003 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 530 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 530 | 518 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |