1981 BMW 518 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 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 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 100 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 518 | A |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2084 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |