2008 BMW 318 vs. 1981 Nissan Sunny

To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Sunny would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (127 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Sunny. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1981 Nissan Sunny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Sunny, 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, 2008 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Sunny. (123 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Sunny.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 318 1981 Nissan Sunny
Make BMW Nissan
Model 318 Sunny
Year Released 2008 1981
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1487 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 127 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 3750 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 123 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 860 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4140 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm