1998 Audi S8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 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 168 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 312 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
