1981 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander

To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518.

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, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander, 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, 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander (167 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 Mitsubishi Outlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 518 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander
Make BMW Mitsubishi
Model 518 Outlander
Year Released 1981 2009
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1766 cc 2397 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 166 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4100 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1810 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2760 mm