1981 BMW 518 vs. 1997 Ford Galaxy
To start off, 1997 Ford Galaxy is newer by 16 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Galaxy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Galaxy (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Galaxy should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Galaxy weights approximately 539 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 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, 1997 Ford Galaxy, 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, 1997 Ford Galaxy (172 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Galaxy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1997 Ford Galaxy | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 518 | Galaxy |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1679 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |
