1981 BMW 518 vs. 2005 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2005 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 24 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Buick LaCrosse (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 475 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, 2005 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2005 Buick LaCrosse (311 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2005 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2005 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2005 Buick LaCrosse | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 518 | LaCrosse |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 3564 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 311 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 | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1615 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2820 mm |