1996 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 Audi A8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 817 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 53.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 903 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 45 L |
