2003 Audi RS6 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2003 Audi RS6 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi RS6 (444 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. (367 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 Audi RS6.
Because 2003 Audi RS6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi RS6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Audi RS6 (560 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM). This means 2003 Audi RS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi RS6 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi RS6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi RS6 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RS6 | CL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 367 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 88 L |
