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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 290 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. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
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 (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
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 | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 507 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 631 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |