1996 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is newer by 9 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1996 Audi A8. (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 199 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (460 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A8. (400 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | E500 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1919 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 80 L |
