2008 Audi A8 vs. 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (149 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 454 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2306 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
