1960 BMW 502 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 1981 BMW 518 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1960 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 BMW 502 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1981 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 BMW 502 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 518 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
