2008 Audi S8 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Audi S8 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2008 Audi S8. (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S8.
Because 2008 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi S8. (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi S8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S8 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S8 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5199 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
