2003 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 145 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A8 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | CLS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |