2001 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 5 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 5,998 cc, 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 24 kg more than 2001 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (380 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 70 L |
