1997 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 12 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 360 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 585 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
