Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 1985
| M1 Motorsport | M5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 286 hp |
| Torque | 243 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 3,453 cc | 3,453 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 163 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,866 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,560 mm | 2,624 mm |
| Length | 4,360 mm | 4,620 mm |
| Units Produced | 453 | 2,241 |
| Original MSRP | $115,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $130,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport excels in greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1985 BMW M5 stands out for better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport and 1985 BMW M5 share a manufacturer in BMW, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the BMW brand. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport producing 277 hp and the 1985 BMW M5 delivering 286 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M1 uses a Inline-6 DOHC 24V (M88) displacing 3,453 cc, while the BMW M5 relies on a Inline-6 with 3,453 cc. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 453 units built, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport is considerably scarcer than the BMW M5's 2,241 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport commands a significant premium over the 1985 BMW M5, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.