1995 BMW S3 vs. 1979 BMW M1
To start off, 1995 BMW S3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1979 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1979 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1979 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, 1979 BMW M1 (330 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 1979 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 1979 BMW M1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | S3 | M1 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
