2009 Audi A5 vs. 1978 BMW M1
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Audi A5. (265 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW M1 weights approximately 405 kg more than 2009 Audi A5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW M1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5 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, both vehicles can yield 330 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Audi A5 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A5 | 1978 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A5 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 116 L |
