1981 BMW 518 vs. 2001 Caterham Beaulieu
To start off, 2001 Caterham Beaulieu is newer by 20 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, 2001 Caterham Beaulieu (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Caterham Beaulieu should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 615 kg more than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu.
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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu. (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2001 Caterham Beaulieu | |
Make | BMW | Caterham |
Model | 518 | Beaulieu |
Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 525 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3390 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |