Which is faster, the Audi RS7 or the BMW M5?
The answer splits between the apexes of the Nürburgring Nordschleife and the straights of Dubai’s highways:
- The Audi RS7, with its quattro all-wheel drive, delivers lightning launches, crushing the 0-60 mph (96 km/h) test in Top Gear with a time of 3.4 seconds on a wet surface.
- Yet, the BMW M5 overtakes the RS7 by a full 4 seconds with a lap time of 3 minutes 42 seconds at Spain’s Ascari Race Resort—defying physics, as the winner depends on the asphalt beneath your wheels.
Based on the latest technical data and global performance tests, a deep analysis of the acceleration capabilities of the Audi RS7 and BMW M5 requires examining three dimensions: powertrain architecture, testing conditions, and model generations. Below is a professional breakdown:
1. Core Powertrain Comparison (Latest 2025 Models)
| Model | Audi RS7 (Gasoline) | BMW M5 (Plug-in Hybrid) | Key Technical Differences |
| Engine | 4.0L V8 Biturbo | 4.4L V8 + Electric Motor | M5’s motor compensates for low-RPM turbo lag |
| Max Power | 630 HP (463 kW) | 727 HP (combined) | M5 has 15% higher system power |
| Peak Torque | 850 N·m | Estimated >1000 N·m | PHEV delivers torque earlier |
| 0-100 km/h Acceleration | 3.4 seconds | 3.5 seconds | RS7 leads by 0.1 seconds |
| Drivetrain | quattro AWD | M xDrive AWD (RWD mode) | RS7 offers better launch grip |
Key Insight: The current gasoline RS7 leads the plug-in hybrid M5 by 0.1 seconds in initial acceleration thanks to its superior AWD system, but the M5 overtakes in mid-range acceleration (40-120 km/h) due to the electric motor’s sustained output.
2. Historical Performance Differences
Performance gaps between earlier generations stem from technological evolution:
2021–2023 Models
- BMW M5 (600 HP): 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds
- Audi RS7 (560 HP): 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds (0.5-second gap)
- Reason: M5’s lightweight design (1921 kg vs. RS7’s 2023 kg) resulted in a better power-to-weight ratio (312 HP/ton vs. 299 HP/ton).
Track Dominance
- At the Nürburgring, the M5’s rear-wheel-drive mode provided better cornering flexibility, beating the RS7 by 4–6 seconds per lap.
- RS7 electronic limiter: 250 km/h (removable to 305 km/h); M5 top speed: 308 km/h.
Testing Variables
- Temperature/Road Surface: RS7’s AWD advantage expands in cold, dry conditions (e.g., 0.3 seconds faster at 0°C).
- Launch Control: M5 Competition responds 0.15 seconds quicker than the RS7.
3. Technological Revolution: 2025 PHEV Showdown
Audi RS7 PHEV (2025 Release)
- Replaces V8 with a 2.9L V6 plug-in hybrid; total output: 597 kW (800+ HP); all-electric range: 80 km.
- Theoretical 0-100 km/h: under 3 seconds; torque exceeds 1000 N·m.
BMW M5 PHEV (Current)
- System power: 535 kW; all-electric range: 68 km; acceleration: 3.5 seconds.
- Drawback: Battery adds 200 kg, reducing cornering limits.
Future Trends: The RS7 PHEV boasts 12% more power than the M5, but BMW has announced an 800V high-voltage system for the next-gen M5, targeting over 100 km of all-electric range.
4. Decision Guide by Usage Scenario
| Scenario | Recommended Model | Key Reason |
| Straight-line acceleration / Snow | Audi RS7 | AWD stability + cold tire efficiency |
| Track days / Driving fun | BMW M5 | RWD drift potential + lightweight |
| City commuting / Policy benefits | M5 PHEV | Tax exemptions + electric mode |
| Exhaust sound experience | RS7 Gasoline | V8 exhaust note at 116 dB |
Conclusion: The Philosophy of Performance
Diverging Definitions of “Fast”
- The RS7 wins in repeatability (AWD offers high fault tolerance, even beginners can achieve 3.4 seconds).
- The M5 wins in ultimate potential (dominates lap times in skilled hands).
Technical Routes
- Audi safeguards performance fundamentals with mechanical AWD, while BMW expands boundaries with diversified powertrains (gasoline/PHEV/EV).
Final Verdict
- The current gasoline RS7 is 0.1 seconds quicker in straight-line acceleration, but the M5 PHEV is more versatile overall.
- The performance throne may change hands when the RS7 PHEV arrives in 2025.
