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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 16 kg more than 2008 Audi A8.
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 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (330 Nm @ 1600 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 | 3936 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 271 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 650 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1944 kg | 1960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |