1997 Audi A4 vs. 2009 Audi S8
To start off, 2009 Audi S8 is newer by 12 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 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 350 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2009 Audi S8.
Because 2009 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4. 2009 Audi S8 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. 2009 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2009 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | S8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 5204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
