2008 Audi S8 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR
To start off, 2008 Audi S8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR would be higher. At 6,898 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (604 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2008 Audi S8. (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S8 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR.
Because 2008 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (770 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S8. (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S8. 2008 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S8 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | CLK GTR |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 6898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 770 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2680 mm |
