1999 Audi S8 vs. 1989 Ferrari Testarossa
To start off, 1999 Audi S8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ferrari Testarossa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ferrari Testarossa would be higher. At 4,943 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 Ferrari Testarossa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ferrari Testarossa (385 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1999 Audi S8. (247 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ferrari Testarossa should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1989 Ferrari Testarossa.
Because 1999 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ferrari Testarossa. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1989 Ferrari Testarossa (500 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S8. (330 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1989 Ferrari Testarossa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S8. 1999 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1989 Ferrari Testarossa has manual transmission. 1989 Ferrari Testarossa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi S8 | 1989 Ferrari Testarossa | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | S8 | Testarossa |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 4943 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
