2004 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 (360 Nm) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2004 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2480 mm |
