1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Audi A8
To start off, 2011 Audi A8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2011 Audi A8. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A8.
Because 2011 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A8. (550 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5956 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
