1981 BMW 518 vs. 2011 Citroen C3
To start off, 2011 Citroen C3 is newer by 30 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Citroen C3 weights approximately 112 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, 2011 Citroen C3, 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, 2011 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2011 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 518 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1252 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
