2001 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |
