2006 Audi A8 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,997 cc, 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (450 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. (265 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A8 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. (404 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5997 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 404 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2145 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2810 mm |
