2003 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 Audi A8.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 72 L |
