1980 BMW M5 vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 1997 Acura RL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 284 kg more than 1980 BMW M5.
Because 1980 BMW M5 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 304 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 1997 Acura RL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | M5 | RL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
