2004 Audi A8 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 (295 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2004 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 (463 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 560 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 463 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 94.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3080 mm |
