1981 BMW 518 vs. 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier (163 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 518 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
