2004 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 6 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 125 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 2004 Audi A8 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, 2004 Audi A8 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 367 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
