The BMW 118d with a Knaus Sudwind 400 FD with an actual weight of 1120 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the BMW is in general fairly good. And also the weight of the Knaus with a normally distributed User Payload (200 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is very good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
210
185
Mountains
Risk of snaking
235
206
Weight ratio: 70% (80% of kerbweight)
1120 kg
1595 kg
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BMW 118d Knaus Sudwind 400 FD
Actual Weights
Knaus Sudwind 400 FD: 1120 kg.
BMW 118d: 1595 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 70%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally good on flat roads (performance score to compare 210 points).
Speeds of 70 mph (113 km/h) to 76 mph (123 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is sufficient power at low engine speeds (score to compare 185 points).
Slightly higher revs (1800 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 19.1 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally good (score to compare 235 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 17%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (3000 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 62 mph (100 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the BMW is sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, a B driving license is enough.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 70%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 80%.
The chance of snaking is small even at higher speeds.
Recommended noseweight is 70 kg.
Stability and safety score to compare is 206 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is fairly good.
Safe driving is possible.
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.