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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1996 Audi A8. (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A8. (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A8.
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 | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 80 L |
