2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 450 kg more than 2011 Audi R8.
Because 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 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 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi R8. (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi R8. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | R8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |
