1981 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 477 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, 2009 Nissan Maxima, 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 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2009 Nissan Maxima 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 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2009 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 518 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2776 mm |
