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 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 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 40 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A8 (360 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 90 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 | 3697 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
