1978 BMW M1 vs. 2009 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (357 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1978 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 565 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 2009 Lexus LS 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, 2009 Lexus LS 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, 2009 Lexus LS (466 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 2009 Lexus LS 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 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2009 Lexus LS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | M1 | LS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 357 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 466 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2980 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 84 L |
