1998 Audi A4 vs. 2003 Audi A8
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1998 Audi A4. 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 2003 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
