2009 Audi A4 vs. 1986 BMW M5

To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 23 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 1 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M5 weights approximately 34 kg more than 2009 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2009 Audi A4, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4. 1986 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A4 1986 BMW M5
Make Audi BMW
Model A4 M5
Year Released 2009 1986
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2974 cc 3428 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 218 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1485 kg 1519 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 120 L