2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 19 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, 2000 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 680 kg more than 2000 Ariel Atom.
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, 2000 Ariel Atom (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
2000 Ariel Atom | 1981 BMW 518 | |
Make | Ariel | BMW |
Model | Atom | 518 |
Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 149 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2630 mm |