1998 Audi S8 vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 1998 Audi S8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 282 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 775 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Renault 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Audi S8 (557 Nm) has 461 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (96 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Audi | Renault |
| Model | S8 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
