1981 BMW 518 vs. 1961 Cadillac DeVille
To start off, 1981 BMW 518 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Cadillac DeVille. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Cadillac DeVille would be higher. At 6,390 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Cadillac DeVille is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Cadillac DeVille (208 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Cadillac DeVille should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Cadillac DeVille weights approximately 945 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:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1961 Cadillac DeVille | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 518 | DeVille |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 6390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 98.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3300 mm |
