2001 Audi A8 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 275 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4612 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2585 mm |
