1996 Audi A8 vs. 2007 Audi S4
To start off, 2007 Audi S4 is newer by 11 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Audi A8. (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S4 weights approximately 75 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, 2007 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A8. (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A8. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi S4 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 | 2007 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 66 L |
