1981 BMW 518 vs. 2011 Kia Picanto
To start off, 2011 Kia Picanto 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, 1981 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2011 Kia Picanto. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Picanto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2011 Kia Picanto. 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 Kia Picanto, 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Picanto. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Picanto. 2011 Kia Picanto 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. 2011 Kia Picanto will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2011 Kia Picanto | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 518 | Picanto |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1086 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2380 mm |
