2002 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (225 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
