2009 BMW X5 vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 19 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), 2009 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X5 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X5 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, 2009 BMW X5 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, 2009 BMW X5 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2009 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
