2004 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,935 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 2012 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, 2004 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (500 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 E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3935 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1845 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
