2005 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 6 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 5,998 cc, 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2005 Audi A8. (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A8. (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
