1996 Audi A4 vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 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, 2001 Audi A8 (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3936 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
