1981 BMW 518 vs. 1991 Volvo 440
To start off, 1991 Volvo 440 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 440 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1991 Volvo 440.
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 Volvo 440, 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, both vehicles can yield 140 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1991 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 518 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2780 mm |
