2003 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 175 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2974 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 461 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |