1978 BMW M1 vs. 1997 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Ford Mustang is newer by 19 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Ford Mustang. (212 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 176 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. 1997 Ford Mustang 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. 1997 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1997 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M1 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
