2009 Bentley Continental GT vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 Bentley Continental GT is newer by 28 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 5,996 cc, 2009 Bentley Continental GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Bentley Continental GT (592 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 502 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Bentley Continental GT should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Bentley Continental GT weights approximately 1555 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 2009 Bentley Continental GT 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, 2009 Bentley Continental GT 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, 2009 Bentley Continental GT (553 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 413 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Bentley Continental GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2009 Bentley Continental GT 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. 2009 Bentley Continental GT will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Bentley Continental GT | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Bentley | BMW |
| Model | Continental GT | 518 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5996 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 592 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 553 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 104.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2695 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5400 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3120 mm | 2630 mm |
