1981 BMW 518 vs. 2007 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet Silverado (353 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 1155 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, 2007 Chevrolet Silverado, 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 Silverado (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 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. 2007 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2007 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 518 | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 353 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 506 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3380 mm |
