1996 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 1996 Audi A8. (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 390 kg more than 1996 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 598 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A8. (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 998 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 80 L |
