2007 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Audi A8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,202 cc (10 cylinders), 2007 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A8 (444 HP) has 385 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A8 weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A8 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, 2007 Audi A8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A8 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5202 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2560 mm |
