2005 Audi S8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2005 Audi S8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (367 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2005 Audi S8. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 185 kg more than 2005 Audi S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi S8 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi S8. (450 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi S8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | CL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 367 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1955 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
