2004 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Audi S5
To start off, 2012 Audi S5 is newer by 8 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), 2012 Audi S5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi S5 (354 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2012 Audi S5.
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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi S5. (440 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi S5. 2004 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi S5 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi S5 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 | 2012 Audi S5 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 354 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 64 L |
