1981 BMW 518 vs. 1988 Honda Civic
To start off, 1988 Honda Civic 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 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 1 more horse power than 1988 Honda Civic. (89 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1988 Honda Civic.
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 Honda Civic, 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 1988 Honda Civic | |
Make | BMW | Honda |
Model | 518 | Civic |
Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1396 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 114 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4240 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |