2009 Audi A8 vs. 1980 BMW M5
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 M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 604 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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 A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1980 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1391 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
