1998 Audi A6 vs. 2008 Audi S8
To start off, 2008 Audi S8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A6 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 361 more horse power than 1998 Audi A6. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A6.
Because 2008 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 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, 2008 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A6. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A6. 2008 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A6 | 2008 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | S8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2950 mm |
