1997 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 365 kg more than 1997 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 391 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1997 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 1997 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 701 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
