1978 BMW M1 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW M1 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M1 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 62 L |
