1978 BMW M1 vs. 2009 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS 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 4,564 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 335 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.
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, 2009 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 2009 Cadillac STS 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. 2009 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2009 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M1 | STS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 3.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 64 L |
