2008 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Ferrari 512 M
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 512 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 512 M would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Ferrari 512 M. (422 HP @ 6750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ferrari 512 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1996 Ferrari 512 M. 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 1996 Ferrari 512 M. 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 (541 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ferrari 512 M. (500 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ferrari 512 M. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ferrari 512 M has manual transmission. 1996 Ferrari 512 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1996 Ferrari 512 M | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | A8 | 512 M |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 422 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 541 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2560 mm |
