1996 Audi A8 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,996 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1996 Audi A8. (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 577 kg more than 1996 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A8. (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 90 L |
