2003 Audi A8 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 3 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 565 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | GL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 384 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 13.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 100 L |
