1978 BMW M1 vs. 1974 Chrysler Valiant
To start off, 1978 BMW M1 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 104 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Chrysler Valiant. (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1974 Chrysler Valiant | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | M1 | Valiant |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2830 mm |
