2004 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Ferrari F355
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Ferrari F355.
Because 1997 Ferrari F355 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 1997 Ferrari F355. 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, 1997 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1997 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1997 Ferrari F355 | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | A8 | F355 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 82 L |
