2006 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2006 Audi A8. (322 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 59 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2006 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, 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 @ 1600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4134 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1945 kg | 1886 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
