2002 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Ferrari 308
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 308 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1981 Ferrari 308.
Because 1981 Ferrari 308 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Audi A8 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ferrari 308. (260 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ferrari 308. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 Ferrari 308 has manual transmission. 1981 Ferrari 308 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1981 Ferrari 308 | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | A8 | 308 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2350 mm |
