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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (181 HP @ 5500 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 100 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm @ 2800 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 | 2976 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
