2001 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 325 kg more than 2001 Audi A8.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - 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, 2001 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Patrol. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Patrol has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Patrol will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1981 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A8 | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2980 mm |
