2006 BMW X5 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 25 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X5 (316 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 1055 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 2006 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW X5 (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2006 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2630 mm |
