2008 BMW 550 vs. 1974 BMW 518
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1974 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 550 | 1974 BMW 518 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 550 | 518 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4800 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 489 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |