2009 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 626. 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 (442 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 626 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 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A8 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 442 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
