1978 BMW M1 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 32 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 63 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL. (210 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1160 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW M1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M1 | GL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1941 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 100 L |
