1997 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Audi A4
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 12 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (211 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 593 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 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 A4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2009 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1032 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
