1981 BMW 518 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 292 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 518 | CLK |
Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 98.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 90.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |