1996 Audi A6 vs. 1978 BMW M1

To start off, 1996 Audi A6 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1996 Audi A6. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A6 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.

Because 1996 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW M1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6. 1996 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Audi A6 1978 BMW M1
Make Audi BMW
Model A6 M1
Year Released 1996 1978
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 2771 cc 3453 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 191 HP 273 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 330 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 93.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.6:1 9.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 10 seconds 5.9 seconds
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 4800 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1140 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 116 L