1978 BMW M1 vs. 2008 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen T5 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 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1044 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 1978 BMW M1 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen T5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2008 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M1 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 80 L |
