2004 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 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 152 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. 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 1996 Volvo 850. 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 @ 3750 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2004 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 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 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2670 mm |
