2000 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 2000 Audi A8. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2000 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 350 kg more than 2000 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Audi A8. (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Audi A8. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
