2004 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A8 would be higher. At 6,207 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (450 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (560 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 6207 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 507 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
