2004 Audi A6 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 A6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A6 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (372 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2004 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A8 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2004 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (444 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A6. (370 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A6. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A6 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 A6 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A6 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 372 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 221 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
