2008 Audi A8 vs. 2004 BMW M5
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M5 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (445 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 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 237 kg more than 2004 BMW M5.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M5. (520 Nm @ 6100 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M5. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 2004 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 4999 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 445 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 520 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 4.7 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 | 1995 kg | 1758 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 14.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
