2009 Audi S8 vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2009 Audi S8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S8 (450 HP) has 230 more horse power than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. (220 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am.
Because 2009 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S8 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 S8 (540 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. (434 Nm). This means 2009 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. 2009 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1979 Pontiac Trans Am has manual transmission. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi S8 | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
Make | Audi | Pontiac |
Model | S8 | Trans Am |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5204 cc | 6555 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 450 HP | 220 HP |
Torque | 540 Nm | 434 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2750 mm |