1997 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 350 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 629 kg more than 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5408 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 61 L |
