1978 BMW M1 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 34 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 1978 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 980 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (999 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 669 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW M1 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | M1 | CL |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3453 cc | 6000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 273 HP | 621 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 999 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5105 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1427 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2954 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 90 L |