1996 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Audi A8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat 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) has 241 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 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 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 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 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A8 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A8 | Passat |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 300 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 400 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |