1981 BMW 518 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 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 2,088 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (108 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 420 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 Peugeot 406, 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 Peugeot 406 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 518 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2088 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
