1998 Audi S8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Audi S8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 44 kg more than 1998 Audi S8.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 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 S8 (557 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (468 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
