1981 Audi 80 vs. 2009 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 28 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 3,696 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 580 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, 2009 Audi A8 (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80. 2009 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. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2009 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | 80 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 3696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 | 1770 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 |
