1998 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1998 Audi A8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A8 (300 HP) has 217 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1998 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Fiesta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Audi A8 (400 Nm) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm). This means 1998 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 1998 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A8 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 166 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2400 mm |
