2005 Audi A8 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E
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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2005 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 129 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1799 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 78 L |
