1998 Audi S8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 67 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (268 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 110 kg more than 1998 Audi S8.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (571 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi S8. (557 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi S8. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 571 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2600 mm |
