1996 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 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 119 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. (181 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1110 kg more than 1996 Audi A8.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 80 L |
