2005 Audi S8 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi S8 would be higher. At 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 2005 Audi S8. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi S8 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
Both vehicles are all wheel drive (AWD) - 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, 2012 Audi R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi S8. (450 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi S8. 2005 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi R8 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 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S8 | R8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1685 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
