AWD BMW M5 vs. RWD Audi R8: How do they compare on the drag strip?

Carwow has attracted our attention with yet another of their comparison videos, this time around putting a four-wheel-drive BMW M5 next to an Audi R8 with the rear driven axle. The two are drastically different, but the actual races have shown they are very close.

Powering the BMW is a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 rated at 625 PS (616 hp / 460 kW) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends the momentum to both axles.

In contrast, the Audi has ten cylinders without forced induction, 5.2 liters of displacement, 570 PS (562 hp / 420 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft). The entire effort goes to the rear axle.

Weight complicates things further. The Bavarian saloon tips the scales at 1,895 kilos (4,178 pounds), while the R8 is much lighter at 1,590 kg (3,505 lbs). In other words, the two are mostly on par when you factor in all the differences. Guess the winner, then watch the races!