2009 Audi A4 vs. 1978 BMW M1
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 31 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 55 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (218 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1978 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 116 L |
