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, 2009 Audi A4 (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1986 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 91 kg more than 1986 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M5. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M5. 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 | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 3428 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 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 |
