2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 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 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (228 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (540 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW M1. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 BMW M1 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
Model | C | M1 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2949 cc | 3453 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 273 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 540 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1140 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 116 L |