1981 BMW 518 vs. 2006 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 25 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 235 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, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2006 Mazda 6 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 518 | 6 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |