1998 Audi A8 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A8 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 120 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (180 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1998 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (235 Nm). This means 1998 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. 1998 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
