1996 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV is newer by 15 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV weights approximately 175 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Alfa Romeo GTV | 1981 BMW 518 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | GTV | 518 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2630 mm |