2002 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 350 kg more than 2002 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 5985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 100 L |
