1997 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 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 95 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2004 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 2004 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (300 Nm). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
