2000 Audi A8 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2000 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi A8 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2000 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2000 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2950 mm |
