1997 Audi A6 vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A6 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Audi A6. (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1997 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A6. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A6. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1997 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A6 | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2950 mm |
