1988 BMW M5 vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1988 BMW M5. (311 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M5.
Because 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M5. (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M5. 2011 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M5 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 21.4 L/100km |
