2002 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2002 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
