1997 Audi A8 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 16 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 5,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL (503 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 353 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 558 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL (830 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 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 - Premium |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 2183 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1419 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2955 mm |
