2005 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Audi A4
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1998 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 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, 2005 Audi A8 (360 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1998 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
