1981 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,980 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (604 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 514 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (1,000 Nm @ 200 RPM) has 860 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 518 | S |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 5980 cc |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3170 mm |