2006 BMW 530 vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 16 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518.
Because 2006 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 530 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
