2003 Audi A8 vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (231 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 382 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (268 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 268 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
