1978 BMW M1 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 28 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1145 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M1 | GL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 384 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 6.6 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 | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 100 L |
