1997 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
