2004 Audi A4 vs. 1986 BMW M5
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (201 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1986 BMW M5.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A4 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M5. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1986 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3428 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1519 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 120 L |
