2006 Audi S4 vs. 1998 Audi S8
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 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, 2006 Audi S4 (340 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Audi S8. (335 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 447 kg more than 2006 Audi S4.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Audi S4. 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 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S4. (410 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1998 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | S4 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 335 HP |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 557 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
