2004 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW M5
To start off, 2008 BMW M5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2004 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 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, 2008 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2008 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 519 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
