2001 Audi A8 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 45 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2720 mm |
