2008 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (445 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 65 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A8. (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A8 | S |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Type | W | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 445 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1995 kg | 2060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3090 mm |