1998 Audi S8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 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 330 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (5 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 184 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (370 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi S8 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 5 HP |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2431 mm |
