2002 Audi S8 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Audi S8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi S8 weights approximately 74 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2002 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S8 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 E (480 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S8. (431 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S8. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S8 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S8 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 343 HP |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
