2001 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Audi S4
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 7 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), 2008 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 750 kg more than 2008 Audi S4.
Because 2008 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 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, 2008 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2008 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S4 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 13.4 L/100km |
