Although among the most powerful 8-bit processors of its era, it was also much more expensive; in 1980 a 6809 in single-unit quantities was $37 compared to $9 for a Zilog Z80 and $6 for a 6502. Additionally, it was launched at the same time as a new generation of 16-bit designs like the Intel 8086, and 32-bit designs were on the horizon, including Motorola's own 68000. It was not feature competitive with newer designs and not price competitive with older ones, and saw relatively little use in the market as a result.