2009 BMW 116 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 BMW 116 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 116 (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 116 weights approximately 180 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.
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, 2009 BMW 116 (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 116 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 116 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 116 | 518 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 71.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |