1981 BMW 518 vs. 1996 Mazda MPV
To start off, 1996 Mazda MPV is newer by 15 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 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 580 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, 1996 Mazda MPV (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1996 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 518 | MPV |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2850 mm |
