1981 BMW 518 vs. 1990 Mercury Capri
To start off, 1990 Mercury Capri is newer by 9 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, 1990 Mercury Capri (100 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Capri should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1990 Mercury Capri.
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, 1990 Mercury Capri, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Capri. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1990 Mercury Capri | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 518 | Capri |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
