2009 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Ferrari 400
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 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 400 (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 400.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ferrari 400. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ferrari 400. (422 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ferrari 400. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1978 Ferrari 400 has manual transmission. 1978 Ferrari 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1978 Ferrari 400 | |
| Make | Audi | Ferrari |
| Model | A8 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4823 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 422 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 120 L |
