1981 BMW 518 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito 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 2,151 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito (120 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito weights approximately 876 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 Mercedes-Benz Vito, 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 Mercedes-Benz Vito (300 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 518 | Vito |
Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Van |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2151 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 88.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 2016 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3010 mm |