2001 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
