2003 Audi A8 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A8.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
