1978 BMW M1 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 31 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, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (252 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac BLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 335 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, 2009 Cadillac BLS, 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, 2009 Cadillac BLS (365 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M1 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 58 L |
