1981 BMW 518 vs. 1988 Dodge Spirit
To start off, 1988 Dodge Spirit is newer by 7 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Spirit (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 114 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.
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, 1988 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 1988 Dodge Spirit | |
Make | BMW | Dodge |
Model | 518 | Spirit |
Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1254 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4610 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2630 mm |