1998 Acura NSX vs. 1980 BMW M5
To start off, 1998 Acura NSX is newer by 18 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, 1998 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura NSX weights approximately 69 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Acura NSX | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | NSX | M5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
