2001 Audi A8 vs. 2006 Audi RS4
To start off, 2006 Audi RS4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi RS4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi RS4 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2006 Audi RS4.
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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi RS4. (430 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi RS4. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi RS4 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi RS4 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 | 2006 Audi RS4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | RS4 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 13.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
