1981 BMW 518 vs. 2004 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2004 Peugeot 406 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Peugeot 406 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Peugeot 406 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 518 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
