1997 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2032 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
