2005 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 276 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 15 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
