2007 Audi A3 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 26 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 250 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, 2007 Audi A3, 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, 2007 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
