2004 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 235 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 499 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 536 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 799 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
