2001 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 247 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A8 (550 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A4. (330 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A4. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A4 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:
| 2001 Audi A4 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
