2003 Audi A8 vs. 1999 Audi S8
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi S8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S8 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1999 Audi S8.
Because 1999 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 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, 1999 Audi S8 (331 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1999 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1999 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 13.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
