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 78 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. (222 HP @ 3800 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 140 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 | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 80 L |
