1981 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Renault Megane 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Megane weights approximately 580 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 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2008 Renault Megane | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 518 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2700 mm |
