1998 Audi S8 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 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 45 more horse power than 2012 Ford Explorer. (290 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 342 kg more than 1998 Audi S8.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Explorer. 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 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi S8 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | S8 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 290 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
