Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 2022
| M1 Motorsport | i4 M50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 536 hp |
| Torque | 243 lb-ft | 586 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,453 cc | — |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 3.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 163 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 12.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,866 lbs | 4,884 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,560 mm | 2,856 mm |
| Length | 4,360 mm | 4,783 mm |
| Units Produced | 453 | — |
| Original MSRP | $115,000 | $67,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport brings higher top speed, lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2022 BMW i4 M50 answers with more power, quicker acceleration, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
BMW has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport with the 2022 BMW i4 M50 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2022 BMW i4 M50 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 536 hp compared to 277 hp, a 259-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Inline-6 DOHC 24V (M88) in the BMW M1 versus a Dual electric motors in the BMW i4. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2022 BMW i4 M50 edges ahead at 3.7 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. The BMW M1 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 2018 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport commands a significant premium over the 2022 BMW i4 M50, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.