2009 Audi A3 vs. 1980 BMW M5
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 29 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 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M5 weights approximately 461 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 1980 BMW M5 (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
