2006 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (322 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 101 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 (650 Nm) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (470 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4134 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1844 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
