2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Audi S8
To start off, 2011 Audi S8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2011 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (142 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 360 kg more than 2011 Audi S8.
Because 2011 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S8 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 Audi S8 (540 Nm) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm). This means 2011 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 2011 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Audi S8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | C | S8 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
