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 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (322 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Audi A8.
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, 2008 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 | 4134 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
