1997 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 170 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 66 L |
