2005 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 765 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 (560 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
