1981 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 112 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 Nissan 350Z, 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 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | 518 | 350Z |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 363 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1252 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |