2003 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 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 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 128 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
