1989 Audi V8 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi V8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi V8 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 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1989 Audi V8. (251 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi V8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi V8 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
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 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi V8. (340 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi V8. 1989 Audi V8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Audi V8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi V8 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | V8 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3562 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
