1999 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1999 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 355 kg more than 1999 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3110 mm |
