2000 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2000 Audi A8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi A8 weights approximately 1080 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2000 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 371 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 2000 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Audi A8 1981 Volkswagen Golf
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A8 Golf
Year Released 2000 1981
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2975 cc 1093 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 230 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 450 Nm 79 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 8.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 45 L