1981 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Honda FR-V
To start off, 2008 Honda FR-V is newer by 27 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda FR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda FR-V (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda FR-V should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda FR-V weights approximately 378 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, 2008 Honda FR-V, 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, 2008 Honda FR-V (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda FR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2008 Honda FR-V | |
Make | BMW | Honda |
Model | 518 | FR-V |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 192 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1518 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2690 mm |