1981 BMW 518 vs. 1993 GMC Typhoon

To start off, 1993 GMC Typhoon is newer by 12 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 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 GMC Typhoon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 GMC Typhoon (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 GMC Typhoon should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 GMC Typhoon weights approximately 600 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.

Because 1993 GMC Typhoon is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 GMC Typhoon will offer significantly more control. 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, 1993 GMC Typhoon (474 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 GMC Typhoon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 1993 GMC Typhoon 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. 1993 GMC Typhoon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 518 1993 GMC Typhoon
Make BMW GMC
Model 518 Typhoon
Year Released 1981 1993
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1766 cc 4300 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 282 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 474 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1140 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4330 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1530 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2560 mm