1980 BMW M1 vs. 2008 BMW 545
To start off, 2008 BMW 545 is newer by 28 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 545 weights approximately 559 kg more than 1980 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, 2008 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M1 | 2008 BMW 545 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M1 | 545 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 262 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
