2005 Audi A4 vs. 1978 BMW M1
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 27 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 96 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (177 HP @ 1500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 2005 Audi A4 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, 2005 Audi A4 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, 2005 Audi A4 (370 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 2005 Audi A4 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. 2005 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1978 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 1500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 116 L |
