2001 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Ferrari 512 M
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 512 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 512 M would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1996 Ferrari 512 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (422 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari 512 M should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1996 Ferrari 512 M.
Because 1996 Ferrari 512 M 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 1996 Ferrari 512 M. 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, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (500 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Ferrari 512 M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ferrari 512 M has manual transmission. 1996 Ferrari 512 M 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 | 1996 Ferrari 512 M | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | A8 | 512 M |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3695 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 422 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
