2005 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 7 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2005 Audi A8. (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 20 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A8. (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| 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 | 1910 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
