2001 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 179 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 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, 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 SL (800 Nm) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (350 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3695 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2009 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
