2009 BMW 335 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 BMW 335 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 335 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518.
Because 2009 BMW 335 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 BMW 335 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 BMW 335 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 335 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 335 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
