2002 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Audi S4
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,161 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 670 kg more than 2008 Audi S4.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2002 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S4. (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S4. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi S4 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 | 2008 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 4161 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
