2008 BMW M5 vs. 1980 BMW M1
To start off, 2008 BMW M5 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M1 would be higher. At 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1980 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 414 kg more than 1980 BMW M1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW M5 (520 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M1. 2008 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M5 | 1980 BMW M1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4999 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 262 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
