2009 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Ferrari 308

To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 308 (240 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 308.

Because 1978 Ferrari 308 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ferrari 308. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ferrari 308.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A8 1978 Ferrari 308
Make Audi Ferrari
Model A8 308
Year Released 2009 1978
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 2976 cc 2927 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 217 HP 240 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 265 Nm
Torque RPM 8200 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 1280 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 4240 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1130 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2350 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 74 L