BMW M1

vs

BMW 1M Coupe

Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 2011

BMW M1 (1978)
BMW 1M Coupe (2011)
Specifications
M1 Procar1M Coupe
Horsepower277 hp335 hp
Torque243 lb-ft332 lb-ft
Engine Size3,453 cc2,979 cc
0-60 mph5.6 sec4.7 sec
Top Speed165 mph155 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec12.9 sec
Weight3,296 lbs
Wheelbase2,560 mm2,660 mm
Length4,360 mm4,380 mm
Units Produced4566,309
Original MSRP$47,010
Value (Excellent)$900,000$90,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity9/107/10
The Verdict

The 2011 BMW 1M Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. The 1978 BMW M1 Procar counters with higher top speed, greater rarity, 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

Within the BMW stable, the 1978 BMW M1 Procar and 2011 BMW 1M Coupe represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the BMW badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 2011 BMW 1M Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 277 hp, a 58-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 BMW 1M Coupe relies on a Inline-6 DOHC 24V Twin-Turbo with 2,979 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2011 BMW 1M Coupe edges ahead at 4.7 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 456 units built, the 1978 BMW M1 Procar is considerably scarcer than the BMW 1M Coupe's 6,309 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 BMW M1 Procar commands a significant premium over the 2011 BMW 1M Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2011 BMW 1M Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.