1998 Audi S8 vs. 1980 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1998 Audi S8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,184 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 219 more horse power than 1980 Mercury Cougar. (116 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1980 Mercury Cougar. 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 1980 Mercury Cougar. 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 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercury Cougar. (264 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercury Cougar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 1980 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Audi | Mercury |
| Model | S8 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 116 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2690 mm |
