2001 Audi A4 vs. 1980 BMW M5
To start off, 2001 Audi A4 is newer by 21 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, 2001 Audi A4 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A4 weights approximately 223 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.
Because 2001 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A4 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, 2001 Audi A4 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5. 2001 Audi A4 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. 2001 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A4 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
