1998 Audi A8 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1998 Audi A8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A8 (300 HP) has 136 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1998 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A8 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, 1998 Audi A8 (400 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm). This means 1998 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. 1998 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A8 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 164 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2950 mm |
