1991 BMW 316 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 1991 BMW 316 is newer by 10 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, 1991 BMW 316 (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 316 weights approximately 170 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 BMW 316 (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW 316 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 316 | 518 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 151 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 71.1 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |