2006 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 166 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (90 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 920 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2006 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (145 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2560 mm |
