1980 BMW M1 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (247 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 339 kg more than 1980 BMW M1.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M1 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M1 | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 262 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
