2002 Audi S4 vs. 2004 Audi A8
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S4 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (330 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 56 kg more than 2002 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, 2004 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S4. (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S4. 2004 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S4 | 2004 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1776 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 90 L |
