2004 Audi S4 vs. 1998 Audi A8
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A8 would be higher. Both 2004 Audi S4 and 1998 Audi A8 are equipped with a 4,172 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Audi A8. (300 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A8.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 S4 (410 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A8. (400 Nm). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A8. 1998 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi S4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1998 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S4 | A8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 300 HP |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2890 mm |
