1981 BMW 518 vs. 2011 Mazda 2
To start off, 2011 Mazda 2 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 Mazda 2 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 94 kg more than 2011 Mazda 2.
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 Mazda 2, 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 2. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 2. 2011 Mazda 2 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 Mazda 2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2011 Mazda 2 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 518 | 2 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1046 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1695 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1475 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2489 mm |