1981 BMW 518 vs. 1983 Fiat 127
To start off, 1983 Fiat 127 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 127. (49 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1983 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 518 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Fiat 127, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1983 Fiat 127 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 518 | 127 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1048 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 67.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 68 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2230 mm |
