1981 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger is newer by 28 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 6,059 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (419 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 329 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 551 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.
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, 2009 Dodge Challenger (420 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2009 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 518 | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 6059 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 419 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2950 mm |
