2005 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (218 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 910 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
