2005 Audi A8 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (335 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. (269 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Audi A8 (431 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
