2002 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Audi A8
To start off, 2002 Audi A4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2002 Audi A4. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2002 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A4. (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A4. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A4 | 1996 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 89 L |
