1997 Audi A8 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 10 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 190 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
