2008 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 (541 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 541 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
