1997 Audi A8 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,688 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (244 Nm). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2688 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
