1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 1983 Austin Maestro is newer by 2 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 5 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro. 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, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Austin Maestro | 1981 BMW 518 | |
Make | Austin | BMW |
Model | Maestro | 518 |
Year Released | 1983 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87.6 mm | 71.1 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2630 mm |