1998 Audi A4 vs. 2009 Audi A8
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 11 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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 755 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.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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 A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 2009 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3936 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
