2001 Audi A8 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 61 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3695 cc | 4965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1891 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
