1977 Audi 100 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Audi 100 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (372 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1977 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A8 weights approximately 910 kg more than 1977 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Audi 100. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A8 (444 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Audi 100. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1977 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1977 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Audi 100 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | 100 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 372 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 2020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5268 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3122 mm |
