1997 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 325 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
