2001 Audi A8 vs. 1974 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1974 Ford Fairlane. (153 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 458 kg more than 1974 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Ford Fairlane is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1974 Ford Fairlane (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1974 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2950 mm |
