1981 BMW 518 vs. 2003 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 22 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, 1981 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2003 Fiat Panda. 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, 2003 Fiat Panda, 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2003 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 518 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 70.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2170 mm |
