1999 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Audi 100
To start off, 1999 Audi A8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,771 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A8 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A8 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1978 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Audi 100. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A8 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, 1999 Audi A8 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100. 1999 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1978 Audi 100 has manual transmission. 1978 Audi 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A8 | 1978 Audi 100 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | 100 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
