1981 BMW 518 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 518 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2512 mm |
