2004 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 835 kg more than 2004 Audi A8.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
