2008 Audi R8 vs. 1980 BMW M5
To start off, 2008 Audi R8 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M5 weights approximately 231 kg more than 2008 Audi R8.
Because 2008 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi R8 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | R8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
