2004 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8.
Because 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 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, 2011 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | R8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 90 L |
