2001 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 5,998 cc, 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 864 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (380 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 | 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 61 L |
