1998 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 14 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 (340 HP) has 57 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. (283 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Routan.
Because 1998 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. 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 (556 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. (352 Nm). This means 1998 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A8 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 283 HP |
| Torque | 556 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3078 mm |
