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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (59 HP @ 5600 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 740 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 front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
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 | 1296 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 90 L |
