2006 BMW 330 vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2006 BMW 330 is newer by 25 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 72 more horse power than 2006 BMW 330. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 330 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
Because 2006 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW M1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 330 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, 2006 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 330 | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1780 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 116 L |
