1998 Audi S8 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 201 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1107 kg more than 1998 Audi S8.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. 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 372 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 94 mm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
