1996 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 70 L |
