1980 BMW M1 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 26 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 464 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M1. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M1 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M1 | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3497 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 262 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3040 mm |
