2004 Audi A4 vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 363 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2012 BMW M5 (680 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 2012 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
