2008 BMW 535 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2008 BMW 535 is newer by 27 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), 2008 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 535 weights approximately 375 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 2008 BMW 535 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, 2008 BMW 535 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, 2008 BMW 535 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 535 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 535 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | 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 Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2630 mm |
