1997 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 131 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2008 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 2008 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 66 L |
