2004 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (345 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (201 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4.
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, 2012 Audi A8 (800 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
