2003 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (136 HP @ 2800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A8 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2974 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 66 L |