1996 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 13 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, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 587 kg more than 1996 Audi A8.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 55 L |
