BMW M1

vs

Porsche 962

Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 1984

BMW M1 (1978)
Porsche 962 (1984)
Specifications
M1 Procar962 Dauer 962 Le Mans
Horsepower277 hp730 hp
Torque243 lb-ft516 lb-ft
Engine Size3,453 cc2,994 cc
0-60 mph5.6 sec2.6 sec
Top Speed165 mph251 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec9.9 sec
Weight2,315 lbs
Wheelbase2,560 mm2,770 mm
Length4,360 mm4,820 mm
Units Produced45613
Original MSRP$1,000,000
Value (Excellent)$900,000$5,000,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity9/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1984 Porsche 962 Dauer 962 Le Mans emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 BMW M1 Procar counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1978 BMW M1 Procar and 1984 Porsche 962 Dauer 962 Le Mans stand as two of the most notable Supercar cars from Malaise era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1984 Porsche 962 Dauer 962 Le Mans holds a clear advantage in raw power with 730 hp compared to 277 hp, a 453-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M1 uses a Inline-6 DOHC 24V displacing 3,453 cc, while the Porsche 962 relies on a Twin-Turbo Flat-6 SOHC with 2,994 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Porsche 962 Dauer 962 Le Mans edges ahead at 2.6 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 13 units built, the 1984 Porsche 962 Dauer 962 Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the BMW M1's 456 examples. On the collector market, the 1984 Porsche 962 Dauer 962 Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1978 BMW M1 Procar, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1984 Porsche 962 Dauer 962 Le Mans rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.