1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Audi A8
To start off, 2011 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A8 (345 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2011 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A8 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, 2011 Audi A8 (800 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 530 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | A8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
