2008 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 240 kg more than 2008 Audi A8. 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A8 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | S |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 5985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 271 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 650 Nm | 570 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 2180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 100 L |