2004 Audi A8 vs. 1988 BMW M5
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 16 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), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1988 BMW M5. (311 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 43 kg more than 1988 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A8 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, 2004 Audi A8 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 A8 (450 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M5. (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M5. 2004 Audi A8 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. 2004 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1988 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 330 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 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 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1776 kg | 1733 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
