1978 BMW M1 vs. 1991 Ford Laser
To start off, 1991 Ford Laser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1991 Ford Laser. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW M1 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1991 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW M1 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Ford Laser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Laser. (123 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Laser. 1991 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1991 Ford Laser | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M1 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
