1981 Audi 80 vs. 2008 Audi A8
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1981 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2008 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | 80 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 3934 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
