1998 Mercury Grand Marquis vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,604 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 212 more horse power than 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis. (208 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis. (360 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mercury | Audi |
| Model | Grand Marquis | R8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4604 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 90 L |
