Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 2009
| M1 Motorsport | Z4 sDrive35is (E89) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 340 hp |
| Torque | 243 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,453 cc | 2,979 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 4.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 163 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 13.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,866 lbs | 3,406 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,560 mm | 2,496 mm |
| Length | 4,360 mm | 4,239 mm |
| Units Produced | 453 | — |
| Original MSRP | $115,000 | $63,600 |
| Value (Excellent) | $1,500,000 | $38,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport brings higher top speed, lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35is (E89) 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 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35is (E89) highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35is (E89) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 340 hp compared to 277 hp, a 63-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 Z4 relies on a Inline-6 Twin-Turbocharged DOHC 24V with 2,979 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35is (E89) edges ahead at 4.5 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. The BMW M1 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 540 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport commands a significant premium over the 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35is (E89), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1978 BMW M1 Motorsport rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.