2004 BMW 318 vs. 1992 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 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. 1992 BMW 520 weights approximately 108 kg more than 2004 BMW 318.
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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1992 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
