2004 Audi A8 vs. 1985 Maserati 420
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Maserati 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Maserati 420 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1985 Maserati 420. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Maserati 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 488 kg more than 1985 Maserati 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Maserati 420 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 Maserati 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1985 Maserati 420 (308 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1985 Maserati 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1985 Maserati 420 | |
| Make | Audi | Maserati |
| Model | A8 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 308 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2610 mm |
