2009 Audi A6 vs. 1988 BMW M5
To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A6 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1988 BMW M5. (311 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M5.
Because 2009 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 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 A6 (441 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M5. (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M5. 2009 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A6 | 1988 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3533 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
