1997 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Audi S4
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 11 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 4,124 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (456 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S4 weights approximately 270 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 2008 Audi S4 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, 2008 Audi S4 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S4. (302 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2008 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 4124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 456 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
