2005 Audi S8 vs. 1998 Audi A4
To start off, 2005 Audi S8 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi S8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi S8 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 S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi S8 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 S8 (450 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4. 2005 Audi S8 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 S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi S8 | 1998 Audi A4 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S8 | A4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | 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 |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
