2003 Audi A8 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 132 kg more than 2003 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
