1999 Audi S8 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi S8 would be higher. At 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (560 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1999 Audi S8. (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S8 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
Both vehicles are all wheel drive (AWD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 R8 (539 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S8. (331 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S8. 2012 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi S8 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi S8 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S8 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1267 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 75 L |
