1981 BMW 518 vs. 2004 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2004 Skoda Octavia 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Skoda Octavia (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 185 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 Skoda Octavia, 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 Skoda Octavia (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2004 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 518 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1896 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 |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
