1978 BMW M1 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 20 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 695 kg more than 1978 BMW M1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW M1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (391 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M1 | ML |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 391 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 72 L |
