2006 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Audi S8
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi S8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 167 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (168 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2006 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Audi S8 (557 Nm) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A4. (230 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1998 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A4 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 335 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 557 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 251 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
