2004 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 755 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 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, 2004 Audi A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (166 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2560 mm |
