2007 Audi S8 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Audi S8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2007 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S8 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2007 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S8 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
