1981 BMW 518 vs. 2013 Kia Forte
To start off, 2013 Kia Forte is newer by 32 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Forte (154 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Forte weights approximately 98 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, 2013 Kia Forte, 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, 2013 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 2013 Kia Forte | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 518 | Forte |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1238 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
