1981 BMW 518 vs. 2007 Chevrolet HHR
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 26 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet HHR (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 67 kg more than 2007 Chevrolet HHR.
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, 2007 Chevrolet HHR, 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, 2007 Chevrolet HHR (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2007 Chevrolet HHR | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 518 | HHR |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 94.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1073 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2630 mm |
