2002 Audi A4 vs. 1980 BMW M5
To start off, 2002 Audi A4 is newer by 22 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 58 more horse power than 2002 Audi A4. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A4 weights approximately 199 kg more than 1980 BMW M5.
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, 2002 Audi A4, 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, 2002 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A4 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
