1978 BMW M1 vs. 2003 Noble M12
To start off, 2003 Noble M12 is newer by 25 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, 2003 Noble M12 (335 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW M1 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2003 Noble M12.
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, 2003 Noble M12 (485 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2003 Noble M12 | |
| Make | BMW | Noble |
| Model | M1 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
