1981 BMW 518 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Citi
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Citi 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Citi. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Citi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Citi weights approximately 24 kg more than 1981 BMW 518.
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 Volkswagen Citi, 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Citi. (108 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Citi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2006 Volkswagen Citi | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 518 | Citi |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1423 cc |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| 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 | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
