1981 BMW 518 vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (261 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 415 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 Nissan Maxima, 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 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2005 Nissan Maxima 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 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | 518 | Maxima |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 261 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 346 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 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 | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |