1997 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Audi RS6
To start off, 2005 Audi RS6 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi RS6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi RS6 (444 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi RS6 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi RS6 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi RS6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi RS6 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, 2005 Audi RS6 (580 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi RS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2005 Audi RS6 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | RS6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 82 L |
