2003 Audi A8 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 7 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 231 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 2086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5065 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2954 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
