1981 BMW 518 vs. 1991 Buick Roadmaster
To start off, 1991 Buick Roadmaster is newer by 10 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 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Buick Roadmaster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Buick Roadmaster (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Buick Roadmaster should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Buick Roadmaster weights approximately 860 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. Let's talk about torque, 1991 Buick Roadmaster (346 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Buick Roadmaster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 1991 Buick Roadmaster has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Buick Roadmaster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 1991 Buick Roadmaster | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 518 | Roadmaster |
Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 5002 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 346 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2040 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2950 mm |