1978 BMW M1 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 35 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 76 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 112 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 1978 BMW M1 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen GTI. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M1 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 55 L |
