2004 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 505 kg more than 2004 Audi A8.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | GL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 100 L |
