1998 Audi S8 vs. 2004 Audi A4
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi S8 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 174 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (161 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2004 Audi A4. 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 2004 Audi A4. 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 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (350 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 2004 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S8 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2660 mm |
