2009 BMW M3 vs. 1978 BMW M1
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1978 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1978 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1978 BMW M1 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 116 L |
