2001 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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 3,695 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (136 HP @ 2800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3695 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 66 L |
