1998 Audi S8 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi S8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 145 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Audi S8.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 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 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi S8 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
