1978 BMW M1 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 30 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 405 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M1 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 70 L |
