1998 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 (300 HP) has 128 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Because 1998 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen T5. 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 172 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3010 mm |
