1981 BMW 518 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 258 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 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (171 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 518 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
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 | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 171 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 93 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |