2004 Acura TSX vs. 1989 BMW 518
To start off, 2004 Acura TSX is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Acura TSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura TSX (200 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura TSX should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura TSX weights approximately 340 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 518 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Acura TSX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Acura TSX (225 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Acura TSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Acura TSX | 1989 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | TSX | 518 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2770 mm |
