2004 Audi A8 vs. 1986 BMW M5
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 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 1 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 151 kg more than 1986 BMW M5.
Because 1986 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 1986 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8, 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, 1986 BMW M5 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8. 1986 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1986 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 3428 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1519 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 120 L |
