2008 Audi A8 vs. 1986 BMW M5
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 22 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 11 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (207 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 171 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, 2008 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1986 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2772 cc | 3428 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1519 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 120 L |
