2001 Audi A6 vs. 1988 BMW M5
To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 13 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 Audi A6. (296 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 82 kg more than 1988 BMW M5.
Because 2001 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 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 A6 (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M5. (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M5. 2001 Audi A6 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. 2001 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 1988 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3533 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 253 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1733 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
