2008 BMW 120 vs. 1989 BMW 518
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 19 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1989 BMW 518.
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, 2008 BMW 120 (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1989 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 120 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
