2000 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2000 Audi A8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 266 kg more than 2000 Audi A8.
Because 1996 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 1996 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 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2000 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2000 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2000 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
