2009 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Audi S8
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi S8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 105 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (230 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 795 kg more than 2009 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Audi S8 (557 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (450 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi S8 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi S8 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 | 1998 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A8 | S8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 335 HP |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 557 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 251 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2890 mm |
