2002 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 7 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (430 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.5 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
