1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet vs. 2011 Audi S8
To start off, 2011 Audi S8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2011 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 335 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Because 2011 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S8 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, 2011 Audi S8 (540 Nm) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (165 Nm). This means 2011 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. 2011 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet | 2011 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
| Model | Cabriolet | S8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2950 mm |
