2001 Audi A8 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 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 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 275 kg more than 2001 Audi A8.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2001 Audi A8 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2720 mm |
