Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 1968
| M1 Motorsport | E9 3.0 CS Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 243 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,453 cc | 2,985 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 163 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,866 lbs | 2,987 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,560 mm | 2,625 mm |
| Length | 4,360 mm | 4,680 mm |
| Units Produced | 453 | 11,063 |
| Original MSRP | $115,000 | $9,195 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $125,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 7/10 |
On balance, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport for outright capability, or the 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe for a more distinctive ownership experience.
BMW has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport with the 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport holds a clear advantage in raw power with 277 hp compared to 180 hp, a 97-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M1 uses a Inline-6 DOHC 24V (M88) displacing 3,453 cc, while the BMW E9 3.0 CS relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 453 units built, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport is considerably scarcer than the BMW E9 3.0 CS's 11,063 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport commands a significant premium over the 1968 BMW E9 3.0 CS Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.