2009 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Audi 100
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 100 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1981 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1981 Audi 100 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | 100 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
