2004 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 22 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1443 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
