1981 Ferrari 400 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (560 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1981 Ferrari 400. (310 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 305 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ferrari 400. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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 R8 (539 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ferrari 400. (392 Nm). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ferrari 400. 2012 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ferrari 400 has manual transmission. 1981 Ferrari 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 400 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Audi |
| Model | 400 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 392 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1267 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 75 L |
