2008 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1981 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (431 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Audi | Saab |
| Model | A8 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2530 mm |
