2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 10 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 6,300 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (500 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2012 Audi A8 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, 2012 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 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A8. (627 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | S | A8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 6300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 627 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5268 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3122 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |
