1984 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 285 kg more than 1981 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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | M1 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3837 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2570 mm |
