1989 BMW 518 vs. 2011 Audi A1
To start off, 2011 Audi A1 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2011 Audi A1. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 518 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2011 Audi A1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A1, 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 Audi A1 (250 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 2011 Audi A1 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 518 | A1 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3954 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1416 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2469 mm |
