2009 Audi A8 vs. 1985 BMW M5
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW M5 (256 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1985 BMW M5.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW M5. (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW M5. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1985 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1985 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 | 1985 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 6.1 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 | 1830 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
