1997 Audi A8 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (613 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 463 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 325 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (999 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 689 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 6000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 613 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 999 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 4.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4633 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2099 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2585 mm |