2009 Audi A8 vs. 1980 BMW M1
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 254 kg more than 1980 BMW M1.
Because 1980 BMW M1 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 M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8, 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 M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1980 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 262 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
