2001 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 11 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 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 109 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | GTI |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2578 mm |
