2004 Audi A8 vs. 2002 Audi S4
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S4 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 38 kg more than 2002 Audi S4.
Because 2002 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S4 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, 2002 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2002 Audi S4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
