2008 Audi A8 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (450 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A8.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A8. (580 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
