2008 Audi A8 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 2008 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 120 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A8. (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 5512 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
