1994 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 336 more horse power than 1994 Audi A8. (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 495 kg more than 1994 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 471 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Audi A8. (249 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Audi A8 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 720 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
