2003 Holden Statesman vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2003 Holden Statesman is newer by 22 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Holden Statesman. (229 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Statesman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 425 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, 2003 Holden Statesman (375 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW M1. 2003 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Statesman | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Holden | BMW |
| Model | Statesman | M1 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
