1997 Audi A4 vs. 2008 Audi A8
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (442 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1997 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2008 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 442 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2950 mm |
