1981 BMW 518 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 196 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 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 518 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 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 |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
