1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2012 Audi A8 (550 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
| Model | Golf | A8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
