1989 Audi 100 vs. 1980 BMW M5
To start off, 1989 Audi 100 is newer by 9 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 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1989 Audi 100. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M5 weights approximately 301 kg more than 1989 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Audi 100, 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, 1980 BMW M5 (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 100. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
