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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 420 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1040 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 690 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 | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3170 mm |