2008 Audi S8 vs. 1986 BMW M5
To start off, 2008 Audi S8 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 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1986 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M5 weights approximately 343 kg more than 2008 Audi S8.
Because 2008 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 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 S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M5. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S8 | 1986 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 3428 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1519 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 120 L |
