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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Audi A8. (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 195 kg more than 2005 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A8. (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A8.
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 | 4170 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 5.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
